Arike Ogunbowale gears up for 2023 season

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The WNBA season tips off next weekend. Hometown hero Arike Ogunbowale is hoping to take the next step to greatness. CBS 58's Scott Grodsky caught up with her Monday.

Arike Ogunbowale is a bona fide superstar. The Milwaukee native is a two-time All-Star and former WNBA scoring champion and is featured in national commercials. Going into her fifth season with the Dallas Wings, their president and CEO called Arike the face of the franchise.

"It's a blessing to be in this position but I'm not taking it for granted. Obviously, there's a lot of people who come and go in the league. He's putting a lot of trust in me so I have to do what I can to help lead the team and bring some wins and a championship to this franchise."

The championship quest starts with a new coaching staff and new vibes as the Wings hope to win their first playoff series since 2009.

"I definitely have a lot of confidence in what I'll be able to put out on the court. But I see the team working. I'm excited to see it all come together."

As Arike evolves into not just an elite scorer, but one of the marquee players for the entire WNBA, Scott Grodsky asked her what it would be like to maybe one day have an exhibition game in her hometown at Fiserv Forum.

"That would be super dope. In my hometown, be able to play in front of home fans, people that have supported me since I was a kid. Hopefully someday that could happen."

The season starts next Saturday at home.