Arike Ogunbowale Responds to Dallas Wings Reporter’s Twitter Comments

WNBA All-Star Arike Ogunbowale and Wings beat reporter Joey Mistretta have had a public exchange that marked the turbulent start to the 2025 WNBA season for the Dallas Wings. After the team lost 88-77 to the New York Liberty, a heated post-game interaction between the star guard and the reporter sparked a conversation about player-media dynamics, accountability, and the state of the franchise.

Postgame Tension Sparks Headlines

During the team’s post-game media availability, the incident occurred. Mistretta inquired with Ogunbowale about her handling of Dallas’ new offense under new head coach Chris Koclanes. Ogunbowale turned the question back on the reporter by asking him to share his observations instead of giving a quick answer. When Mistretta asserted that she was still adjusting, Ogunbowale brought up other things she had observed from him on Twitter/X.

Her response was measured in the end:

“It’s just adjustments, like you said. New offense. New coach. New team. Still making adjustments. Just trying to help my team win. Just trying to get better every game.”

Ogunbowale’s third-quarter surge helped Dallas overcome a 16-point halftime deficit, despite a slow start in the first half. The Wings’ frustrations in the early season were extended as the comeback fell short.

Reporter’s Perspective and Public Clarification

Mistretta posted a tweet shortly after the exchange, expressing her dissatisfaction with Ogunbowale’s performance in Dallas’ offense all season. Paige Bueckers, who was absent from the Liberty game due to a back injury, was still a supporter.

As evidence, he cited her halftime stats against New York (3 points on 1-for-7 shooting) as a comparison. Mistretta explained the reason for not responding to Ogunbowale with the same criticism during the press conference the following day. He clarified that his remarks were not harsh criticism, but rather a review of her compatibility with the new system.

“I absolutely believe Arike is a great player, and I do think she’s still making the adjustment,” Mistretta wrote. “I chose not to expand because there wasn’t any reason to start an argument in a postgame press conference while other reporters were waiting to ask questions.”

Arike is a great player, but she’s still making the adjustment to this offense.

— Joey Mistretta (@JoeyMistretta_) August 9, 2025

Ogunbowale’s Social Media Response

On her Twitter/X account, Ogunbowale addressed the issue later, stating that she welcomes criticism but emphasizes honesty and consistency.

“yall so funny. i never say anything fr, criticism’s part of the job, i welcome all of it. BUT if one day i feel like responding just stand on everything said don’t start studdering lmao. but anyway back to being quiet. God bless.”

😂😂 yall so funny. i never say anything fr, criticism’s part of the job, i welcome all of it. BUT if one day i feel like responding just stand on everything said don’t start studdering lmao. but anyway back to being quiet. God bless 🙏🏾

— Arike Ogunbowale (@Arike_O) August 9, 2025

Her comment made it clear that her reaction was not about suppressing criticism, but rather ensuring that those who offer it remain firm when questioned directly.

Context: A Season of Frustration for Dallas

The Dallas Wings’ 1-8 start was the worst record in the WNBA at the time of the exchange. For the lack of cohesion and slow adaptation to his system, head coach Chris Koclanes has been under fire. Ogunbowale’s response when asked directly about Koclanes’ early-season performance was neutral and team-focused.

“We’re all in it as a team and we’re still going everyday… Getting better everyday.”

Despite her reserved comment, she praised assistant coach Nola Henry, whom she described as her “young, hungry, and with a really great basketball mind.”

Henry’s role in pregame preparations and skill work has been significant, and her rapport with players has been recognized as a positive aspect during a challenging campaign.

Arike Ogunbowale’s On-Court Role and Production

Dallas’ offense remains centered around Ogunbowale, despite the team’s struggles. Her ability to score in high-pressure moments has led her to shoot 36.3% from the field and average 16.8 points, 3.9 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game this season.

Critics have pointed out a decrease in shooting percentages compared to previous years, making her efficiency a talking point. Her injuries have also played a part, as she missed her first game of the season against the Phoenix Mercury because of a thumb injury she sustained against the Washington Mystics.

Injury Challenges and Team Resilience

The Wings were able to beat the Mercury 98-89 without Ogunbowale, thanks to strong performances from Bueckers (23 points) and Aziaha James (28 points). Dallas quickly took advantage of an early double-digit lead and never relinquished it, demonstrating the depth that has been frequently questioned this season. Ogunbowale’s health and the team’s ability to integrate their roster pieces more effectively are key to sustaining that success.

Trade Speculation and the Franchise’s Future

In recent weeks, there have been persistent trade rumors surrounding Ogunbowale. Multiple sources have informed Mistretta that no active discussions are happening.

“I don’t think we [Wings] want to give up on her yet,” one source said.

Dallas selected Paige Bueckers as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, a move seen as franchise-defining, intended to pair her with Ogunbowale for years to come. The backcourt’s long-term survival under Koclanes’ system has been sparked by a slow start.

Coach-Player Dynamics Under the Microscope

The team’s ongoing struggle is centered around the dynamic between Koclanes and his players. While Koclanes has admitted his early-season performance has been poor and pledged to make adjustments, the perception of his leadership within the locker room remains uncertain.

Ogunbowale’s cautious comments about Koclanes and her open praise for Henry have caused some analysts to speculate about locker room alignment and long-term trust.

The Bigger Picture for Dallas

The Wings’ issues go beyond coaching or a single player’s performance. The team’s current standing has been impacted by injuries, inconsistent defensive execution, and offensive misfires. Ogunbowale’s leadership — both on and off the court — remains essential for any possible turnaround.

Her influence on the franchise is evident, regardless of whether the team decides to retool around her or explore trade possibilities.

Looking Ahead

Dallas’ preparation for their next games will involve regaining momentum, improving offensive flow, and solidifying team chemistry. The narrative will always include the ongoing conversation between players, coaches, and the media, especially when tensions become too much to handle in public forums.

The competitive edge that has defined her career can be seen in Ogunbowale’s willingness to face criticism head-on. To achieve consistent team success for the Wings, channeling their edge will be the ultimate challenge moving forward.