Arike Ogunbowale, a four-time WNBA All-Star, faced arrest on Thursday night following a post-game celebration at Club E11EVEN in Miami, where she was reportedly celebrating Mist BC’s victory in the Unrivaled Finals. According to a report by FOX Sports’ Andy Slater, the incident involved Ogunbowale punching a man in the face, causing him to fall to the ground. While this altercation was captured on video, the footage has not yet been publicly released.
The timing of Ogunbowale’s arrest is particularly noteworthy as it comes just weeks before the WNBA season is set to commence on April 25. Ogunbowale, having been selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2019 WNBA Draft from Notre Dame, is entering her eighth year with the Dallas Wings. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact her availability for the opening game of the season.
In the championship match, Ogunbowale played a key role in Mist BC’s success, finishing as the second-leading scorer with a significant contribution to their 80-74 win over Phantom BC. Two-time WNBA MVP Breanna Stewart notably excelled during the game, leading all players with 32 points and earning the title of Unrivaled Finals MVP. Ogunbowale credited her team’s focus on overpowering their opponents at the basket for their victory, despite confronting challenges during the match.
Since her entrance into the league, Ogunbowale has established herself as a dynamic player, maintaining a career average of 19.9 points, 4.0 assists, and 3.2 rebounds over 224 games. She notably earned the title of league scoring champion in 2020 and led the league in steals in 2024. Throughout her career, she has received multiple accolades, including selections to the All-WNBA teams.
Mist BC’s victory in the 2026 Unrivaled Finals marks a significant achievement in the league’s history, becoming only the second team to win the championship, following Rose BC’s triumph last season, which featured standout players like All-WNBA guard Chelsea Gray and WNBA All-Star Angel Reese. With Ogunbowale’s talent and resilience, there is optimism for her continued success on and off the court as the new season approaches.