Arike Ogunbowale Discusses Her Withdrawal from Olympic Consideration
- WNBA All-Star Game MVP Arike Ogunbowale has announced her withdrawal from consideration for the upcoming Olympics.
- She cited reasons related to 'flags' and 'politics' as influencing her decision.
- Her withdrawal raises questions about the intersection of sports and political issues.
In a recent interview, WNBA All-Star Arike Ogunbowale revealed that she had withdrawn her name from consideration for the upcoming Olympic basketball team several months ago. Ogunbowale, who was named MVP of the WNBA All-Star Game, cited feelings of being unwanted as a significant factor in her decision. "I wasn’t feeling like they really wanted me on that team, so I just removed myself," she stated during an appearance on ESPN's "SportsCenter." The athlete hinted at underlying "politics" influencing team selections, a sentiment she has observed throughout her basketball career. While she did not elaborate extensively on the specifics, Ogunbowale expressed that her experiences in both college and the WNBA have exposed her to the political dynamics that can affect player opportunities. "I see it all across professional sports. There are some great players that aren’t on teams," she noted. Ogunbowale mentioned that she recognized certain "flags" that led her to her decision, indicating a sense of awareness about the competitive landscape. Despite her withdrawal from Olympic consideration, she emphasized her gratitude for the opportunity to play basketball and her commitment to continue honing her skills. "God has blessed me with my abilities, and I’m just going to keep doing what I do," she affirmed, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the sport.