Former athlete and mother of WNBA superstar Arike Ogunbowale Yolanda Ogunbowale has shaped her children’s careers. DePaul University softball pitcher Yolanda was used to competition. In recent years, her motherhood has attracted the greatest attention, notably with Arike’s basketball success.
Yolanda Ogunbowale: A Woman of Many Talents
Yolanda Ogunbowale was an outstanding athlete before raising two successful children, Arike, a Dallas Wings star, and Dare, a Houston Texans running back. She showed her skill and determination in softball at DePaul. Yolanda played volleyball for Harlem High School in Milwaukee, adding to her athletic history.
Her undergraduate athletic experiences shaped her parenting style, emphasizing discipline, perseverance, and collaboration.
Yolanda Ogunbowale’s Daughter: Arike Ogunbowale
The Dallas Wings’ explosive guard Arike Ogunbowale is a top WNBA scorer. Arike is the youngest of three children born to Yolanda and Gregory Ogunbowale in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on March 2, 1997. She played basketball for Notre Dame, where she was recognized for her scoring, after being raised in a sports-loving household. Arike was named NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player in 2018 after leading the Fighting Irish to a national championship. After being drafted 5th overall by the Dallas Wings in 2019, she rapidly became one of the WNBA’s top players, noted for her clutch plays and ability to score from anywhere.
Arike’s sporting career was supported by her mother, former basketball star Yolanda Ogunbowale. Yolanda, a college athlete, supported Arike throughout her competitiveness. Yolanda taught Arike balance and determination on and off the court, which fueled her passion and work ethic. Arike is inspired by the Ogunbowale family, and her brother, NFL star Dare Ogunbowale, is also passionate about football. Arike Ogunbowale’s ascent in the WNBA is a testament to her talent and her parents’ love and support, especially Yolanda.
Arike Ogunbowale: A Star in the Making
Arike Ogunbowale’s career is particularly influenced by her mother. Arike, born in Milwaukee to Nigerian parents, became famous after helping Notre Dame win a national title. Arike’s mother, Yolanda, has always supported her aspirations and helped her grow as an athlete and person.
Yolanda supported her daughter Arike as she joined the Dallas Wings in the WNBA, cheering her on and coaching her through the hurdles. Arike’s tenacity and determination, often cited in interviews and social media posts, stem from Yolanda’s early lessons.
The Ogunbowale Family Legacy: Support and Strength
The Houston Texans’ Dare Ogunbowale was raised by Yolanda and Arike. After a successful college career at Wisconsin, Dare became an NFL running back. Yolanda has always stressed family and support, even though Dare and Arike have separate careers.
Both siblings are close, and Yolanda has helped them achieve the top of their sports by developing their talents. Dare and Arike often publicly support and celebrate each other’s successes, demonstrating their close friendship. Arike celebrated Dare’s game-winning touchdown for the Texans with emotion. Yolanda helped foster this sibling friendship by instilling pride and togetherness.
Yolanda’s Role Beyond Sports: A Dedicated Mother
Mother Yolanda Ogunbowale goes beyond supporting her children’s athletic pursuits. She has always supported Arike and Dare, giving them counsel and encouragement in many areas. Her loving style has made them feel safe and secure as athletes and people.
Yolanda has supported Arike in the WNBA by attending games and cheering on her daughter. But Yolanda is more than a cheerleader—she’s a mentor, teacher, and early educator who taught perseverance, hard work, and self-confidence in her children.
Yolanda Ogunbowale’s Influence on Arike’s Career
Arike Ogunbowale has struggled in recent years, including not being selected for Team USA before the Paris Olympics. After these disappointments, Arike has stayed positive, guided by her mother’s knowledge and support. Yolanda has taught her daughter that success is about the journey, progress, and influence on others, not just accolades.
Arike was also shaped by the Ogunbowale family’s Nigerian ancestry. A passionate Yoruba woman, Yolanda has kept her children linked to their cultural traditions, with Arike often mentioning how her culture has affected her perspective and basketball style.
Looking Ahead: Yolanda’s Legacy
Even though Yolanda Ogunbowale is less famous than her children, her legacy is obvious. She helped Arike and Dare succeed with her family dedication, athletic background, and unfailing support. Yolanda’s influence will lead them through their lives as they make waves in their sports.
Yolanda Ogunbowale has shown that a mother’s love, support, and advice are crucial to a child’s success on the court, field, or in life.
