Earlier this year, WNBA star Paige Bueckers experienced a frightening moment when a police officer aimed a Taser at her during the turbulent arrest of her Dallas Wings teammate, Arike Ogunbowale. Newly released police body camera footage obtained by the California Post reveals the tense events that took place.
The incident occurred around 4:20 a.m. on March 5 outside the Miami nightclub E11EVEN. Bueckers, Ogunbowale, and several other WNBA players had been celebrating Ogunbowale’s championship victory in the Unrivaled women’s basketball league inside the club when the situation suddenly escalated. The group was quickly escorted out, which soon led to a chaotic confrontation with police and Ogunbowale’s arrest.
According to the police report, a dispute erupted inside the venue leading to Ogunbowale and her party being directed toward a rear exit. The situation worsened after Ogunbowale allegedly struck a nightclub security worker “in the face with a closed fist.” Following the employee’s identification of Ogunbowale as the aggressor, an officer attempted to detain her shortly after she stepped outside.
Bodycam footage shows the officer grabbing Ogunbowale’s wrists while Bueckers and others intervened, pleading for her release. As more teammates and associates—including Maria Clifton, Jackie Young, and DiJonai Carrington—gathered around Ogunbowale, the officer drew his Taser and ordered them to step back. Despite this, Bueckers remained close, embracing Ogunbowale and calmly assuring the officer, “We got her.”
Ogunbowale was subsequently arrested, booked on a misdemeanor battery charge, but the case was dismissed in May. Her attorney expressed gratitude after the State Attorney’s Office chose not to pursue the matter. Ogunbowale, a four-time WNBA All-Star and the Wings’ first-round 2019 pick, continues to shine, having also led the Mist to a 2026 Unrivaled championship during the offseason. In April, she solidified her commitment to Dallas by signing a lucrative multi-year contract with the Wings.
Fan Take:
This incident highlights the intense scrutiny and pressures WNBA players face even off the court, reminding fans of the challenges these athletes endure beyond their sport. Seeing Bueckers step up to protect her teammate showcases the deep camaraderie and resilience within the league—qualities that will only help grow respect and support for women’s basketball.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
