Published on Mar. 3, 2026
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Arike Ogunbowale, on her 29th birthday, delivered a stunning game-winning three-pointer to lift the Mist over the Breeze 73-69 in the Unrivaled Semifinals. The victory sets up a championship clash with Phantom BC on Wednesday, March 4th, at 9:30 p.m. EST.
Why it matters
The Unrivaled League, co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, represents a growing trend in basketball towards faster-paced, more accessible 3v3 play that appeals to a wider audience. Ogunbowale’s heroics also come as the WNBA and its players’ union negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement, with revenue sharing being a key sticking point.
The details
The Breeze initially surged ahead, building a 16-point lead in the first quarter, fueled by Rickea Jackson’s nine points. However, the Mist chipped away at the deficit, and despite a strong performance from Paige Bueckers, who scored a floater to give the Breeze a 62-55 lead going into the fourth, Mist rallied. The Breeze managed only 7 points in the final quarter, allowing Mist to storm back.
On Monday, March 3, 2026, Arike Ogunbowale hit the game-winning 3-pointer on her 29th birthday.The Unrivaled Championship game is scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 9:30 p.m. EST.
The players
Arike Ogunbowale
A star player for the Dallas Wings in the WNBA who hit the game-winning shot for the Mist in the Unrivaled Semifinals.
Paige Bueckers
A key player for the Breeze who scored a floater to give her team a 62-55 lead going into the fourth quarter.
Breanna Stewart
The Mist’s leading scorer with 23 points and a co-founder of the Unrivaled League.
Phantom BC
The No. 1 seed team that will face the Mist in the Unrivaled Championship game, despite losing star center Aliyah Boston to injury.
Kelsey Plum
The WNBPA first vice president who emphasized the importance of reaching a timely agreement on the new WNBA collective bargaining agreement.
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What they’re saying
“Revenue sharing is a key sticking point in the ongoing WNBA CBA negotiations. A strike would be detrimental to both sides.”
— Kelsey Plum, WNBPA First Vice President
What’s next
The Unrivaled Championship game between the Mist and Phantom BC is scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 9:30 p.m. EST.
The takeaway
Arike Ogunbowale’s game-winning shot on her birthday highlights the growing popularity of 3v3 basketball and the increased player empowerment seen in leagues like Unrivaled. As the WNBA CBA negotiations continue, the outcome will significantly impact the league’s future and player compensation.