Arike Ogunbowale Torches Team USA with All-Star Record 34 Points
In a stunning display of basketball prowess, Arike Ogunbowale set a new WNBA All-Star Game record with 34 points, leading Team WNBA to a thrilling 117-109 victory over Team USA on Saturday night. The performance not only earned Ogunbowale her second All-Star Game MVP award but also showcased her ability to rise to the occasion under pressure.
Ogunbowale’s Historic Performance
The scene at the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix was electric, with 16,407 fans witnessing Ogunbowale’s extraordinary performance. Despite entering halftime with zero points and Team WNBA trailing by two, Ogunbowale responded to Coach Cheryl Miller’s pep talk with remarkable intensity. Miller had challenged Ogunbowale to take a deep breath and play her game, a message that clearly resonated.
Ogunbowale exploded in the third quarter, scoring 21 points—setting a new record for the most points scored in a single quarter in WNBA All-Star Game history. This surge was instrumental in propelling Team WNBA to victory and repeating their success from three years ago, when they first defeated Team USA in the All-Star Game format.
Breaking Records and Making History
Ogunbowale’s 34 points not only earned her MVP honors but also marked the second-highest scoring half in WNBA history, just behind Riquna Williams’ 35-point second half for the Tulsa Shock in a 2013 regular-season game. This performance places Ogunbowale among an elite group of players with multiple All-Star Game MVPs, joining legends like Lisa Leslie, Maya Moore, and Swin Cash.
“I guess you guys saw what happened,” Ogunbowale remarked post-game, reflecting on her exceptional play and the impact it had on the game.
Team USA’s Strong Performance
Team USA had its standout performances, with forward Brianna Stewart delivering a double-double of 31 points and 10 rebounds. However, despite Stewart’s efforts and significant contributions from other stars like A’ja Wilson and Diana Taurasi, they couldn’t counter Ogunbowale’s record-setting display.
Team USA coach Cheryl Reeve humorously acknowledged Ogunbowale’s dominance by comparing her to an NBA player, a nod to the level of skill Ogunbowale exhibited. Reeve’s quips during the postgame press conference highlighted the intensity of the competition and the respect for Ogunbowale’s game.
Rookie Highlights and Team Dynamics
The All-Star Game also featured notable performances from rookies. Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese became the first rookie to record a double-double in an All-Star Game with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Caitlin Clark, who started with the highest number of votes among all players, tallied 10 assists, narrowly missing Sue Bird’s All-Star Game assist record. Clark’s remarks about not feeling vindicated despite the win underscored the competitive spirit of the league.
Reese and Clark’s chemistry on the court was evident, especially during a memorable fourth-quarter play where Clark assisted Reese for a crucial basket. Their synergy was praised by Team WNBA forward Nneka Ogwumike, who commended their professionalism and maturity.
Conclusion
Arike Ogunbowale’s performance in the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game was nothing short of spectacular, setting records and securing her place as one of the league’s brightest stars. Her ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and lead her team to victory reinforces her status as one of the premier players in women’s basketball.
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FAQs:
1. How many points did Arike Ogunbowale score in the WNBA All-Star Game?
Arike Ogunbowale scored a record-breaking 34 points in the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game, setting a new high for points scored in the game’s history.
2. What was Arike Ogunbowale’s role in Team WNBA’s victory?
Ogunbowale played a crucial role in Team WNBA’s 117-109 win over Team USA, earning MVP honors for her historic performance. Her 34 points included 21 in the third quarter, the highest single-quarter total in All-Star Game history.
3. How did Ogunbowale’s performance compare to other All-Star Game MVPs?
Ogunbowale’s 34 points are the second-highest in any half in WNBA history, behind only Riquna Williams’ 35-point second half. She is also now among the elite group of players with multiple All-Star Game MVP awards, alongside Lisa Leslie, Maya Moore, and Swin Cash.
