Arike Ogunbowale Earns Dirk Nowitzki's Blessing

Arike Ogunbowale made Dallas Wings history by setting the all-time scoring record and passing Deanna Nolan. Ogunbowale accomplished this feat in six seasons, whereas Nolan took nine. The Wings star scored 3,972 points on Sept. 11 against the New York Liberty. Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki relates to such a feat, so naturally, he had some fitting words for Ogunbowale.

“Congratulations on being the Wings' all-time leading scorer. That's an amazing accomplishment, we're all proud of you,” Nowitzki said . “Keep going, I know there's plenty of buckets to come. Enjoy this moment and this accomplishment.”

From one Dallas franchise-leading scorer to another, Nowitzki understands how to act in the moment and carry himself accordingly, regardless of the situation. Nowitzki is never too big to compliment a legend or a current star who merits recognition. However, regarding local talent, Nowitzki shows up as quickly as Batman when Officer Gordon hits the bat signal.

Aside from leading the Mavs franchise in scoring, Nowitzki is also a legendary sixth all-time in NBA history, ahead of Hall-of-Fame scorers Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O'Neal.

Regarding Ogunbowale's potential to skyrocket the Wing's scoring record, she has one more deal left on her contract. Unless Ogunbowale leaves for a championship contender or a team in the playoff hunt, Dallas should re-sign the elite scorer.

The Wings have a 9-28 record, which is second to last, two games better than the Los Angeles Sparks.

Related: Dirk Nowitzki Praises Old Friend Steve Nash

Ogunbowale is a four-time All-Star, earning MVP votes for every season, earned the 2024 WNBA All-Star MVP, and led the league in scoring for the 2020 season.