The Most Influential Players in Dallas Wings History

The Dallas Wings may not have the decades-long legacy of some WNBA franchises, but since relocating from Tulsa in 2016, the team has built a strong identity through standout players who have shaped its culture, performance, and growth. From elite scorers to defensive anchors, several athletes have left a lasting impact on the franchise.

As interest in the league continues to grow—with fans increasingly following player performances, matchups, and even trends like WNBA odds on DraftKings—the contributions of these players stand out even more clearly. Here’s a closer look at some of the most influential figures in Dallas Wings history, along with their backgrounds and impact.

Table of Contents

Arike Ogunbowale: The Face of the Franchise

Few players are as closely associated with the Dallas Wings as Arike Ogunbowale.

The star rose to national prominence during her college career at the University of Notre Dame, where she hit back-to-back buzzer-beaters in the 2018 Final Four and championship game, cementing her reputation as a clutch performer.

Drafted fifth overall in 2019, she quickly became the team’s primary scoring option. Known for her ability to create her own shot and take over games late, Ogunbowale has consistently ranked among the WNBA’s top scorers.

Her leadership and offensive firepower have made her the cornerstone of the Wings’ modern era, helping push the team into playoff contention multiple times.

Satou Sabally: Versatility and Star Power

Satou Sabally has been another transformative player for Dallas, bringing versatility and an international pedigree.

Born in New York and raised in Germany, she played college basketball at the University of Oregon, where she became one of the most dynamic forwards in the country.

Selected second overall in the 2020 WNBA Draft, Sabally brought a rare combination of size, athleticism, and ball-handling. When healthy, she has been one of the most complete players in the league, capable of scoring, rebounding, and facilitating.

Her breakout seasons have elevated the Wings’ ceiling, turning them into a more balanced and dangerous team.

Skylar Diggins-Smith: Leadership and Recognition

Before the current core was fully developed, Skylar Diggins-Smith played a major role in raising the team’s profile. A standout at the University of Notre Dame, DS entered the WNBA as one of the most high-profile guards of her generation.

After joining Dallas, she became a vocal leader and one of the team’s most reliable playmakers. Her ability to control tempo, score efficiently, and create opportunities for teammates helped stabilise the franchise during a transitional period.

She also brought national attention to the Wings, earning All-Star selections and helping the team gain credibility across the league.

Allisha Gray: Consistency and Two-Way Excellence

Allisha Gray has been one of the most consistent performers in Dallas Wings history.

Gray played college basketball at University of South Carolina, where she was part of a national championship-winning team.

Drafted fourth overall in 2017, she made an immediate impact by winning Rookie of the Year. Known for her defensive intensity and scoring efficiency, she became a dependable presence on both ends of the court.

Her versatility allowed Dallas to match up with a variety of opponents, making her a key piece in multiple playoff pushes.

Liz Cambage: Dominance in the Paint

Liz Cambage brought a different kind of impact—sheer physical dominance. An Australian international star, already well-known globally before joining Dallas.

During her time with the Wings, Cambage delivered one of the most iconic performances in WNBA history, scoring a record-breaking 53 points in a single game. Her size and scoring ability made her nearly unstoppable in the paint.

Although her tenure with the team was relatively short, her impact was undeniable, both statistically and in the attention she brought to the franchise.

Marina Mabrey: Energy and Playmaking

Marina Mabrey has also played a key role in shaping the team’s identity. Another product of the University of Notre Dame, she entered the league known for her scoring and competitive edge. With Dallas, she developed into a well-rounded guard, contributing as both a scorer and facilitator. Her energy and aggressiveness helped drive the team’s pace and offensive rhythm.

The Dallas Wings have been shaped by a mix of star power, leadership, and versatility over the years. Players like Arike Ogunbowale and Satou Sabally represent the present and future of the franchise, while figures like Skylar Diggins-Smith, Allisha Gray, and Liz Cambage helped build its foundation.

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and visibility, the contributions of these players become even more significant. They haven’t just influenced wins and losses—they’ve defined the identity of the Wings and helped establish the team as a competitive force in the league.