“The true sign of knowledge is not intelligence, but imagination,” says Albert Einstein. Arike Ogunbowale’s imagination represents the fabric of her being. 

The two-time All-Star, who recently celebrated her 26th birthday, is known for being a prolific scorer on the court. As a lead guard that can operate on all three levels of the court, Arike is known for her acrobatic finishes around the rim, yo-yo-like ball handling skills, and natural penchant for manipulating angles to blow by defenders and penetrate towards the rim. The overwhelming parallel between these traits is the utilization of your imagination in a creative manner. That’s what makes Arike so unique, both on and off the court.

Off the court, the former Notre Dame standout shares that same passion for creativity in her style. Arike has been spotlighted on social media for her love of streetwear and for fusing her personality into her fashion. While she has a natural knack for dressing, Arike recently collaborated with former WNBA guard and current stylist Chloe Jackson for an array of fits during the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend in Utah. The two also plan on collaborating on fits during the 2023 WNBA season. 

While Arike and Chloe famously faced off against each other in the 2019 NCAAWB Championship between Baylor and Notre Dame, their relationship nowadays more resembles teammates that share similar passions and want to see each other win in every facet of life. 

In the following interview, I had the opportunity to connect with Arike Ogunbowale and Chloe Jackson to learn more about the relationship between a stylist and a player. Upon finishing the conversation, I came to one immediate realization based on their personalities and auras: It’s not what’s on you; it’s what’s in you. 

Drew Acampora: Talk to me about how your relationship began.
Arike Ogunbowale: The (2019 NCAAWB) Championship Game!
Chloe Jackson: No, before that. When I was at NC State in 2014. We both played in the ACC, so we connected over socials.

DA: Since the relationship formed from basketball, does that make the relationship more natural compared to other stylists?
AO: Yeah, definitely. Since Chloe played in the WNBA, she already knows what type of venues you go to and (thus) knows what to put on for each occasion. She gets it. 

DA: On the court, you’re known for your trademark competitiveness but also your natural creativity in your scoring arsenal. Is that something you’re cognisant of when attempting to style yourself off the court?
AO: I just try to be me. I want to always be true to myself. I always want to stay in my box of who Arike is and represents.

DA: Is that something from your adolescence or something you evolved into?
AO: It changes with time. Back then, I wasn’t able to buy all the designer I do now. But I always had a vision. Style elevates when you elevate. It’s all in the growth as a person, to be honest.

DA: Do you feel like your growth as a person also influenced your growth in style?
AO: Streetwear has always been a central part of my style. This next chapter, and especially with collaborating with Chloe, it’s moving into elevated streetwear, classy streetwear that can be worn more formally. That’s where Chloe comes in.

DA: That makes me want to ask you, Chloe. You have a mix of streetwear blended with high-end luxury fashion in your own style. How does that and your playing career differentiate you from other stylists?
CJ: I think having that hooping background, I understand what type of outfits you need. That type of comfortability in knowing you have to put that outfit on right after the game. Being comfortable is key, but also making that person’s personality come out in their clothes.

DA: How do you plan on incorporating someone like Arike’s personality into her fits this upcoming season?
CJ: For Arike, understanding “What do you want to be?” Everyone knows Arike can dress. That’s been known. This next chapter, it’s adding more versatility for other types of outfits while still remaining organic to who she is. She needs to be on League Fits All-Stars next year! 

Tune in to WNBA League Pass to see Chloe talking to your favorite hoopers in her exclusive series, Vibin’ with Chloe Jackson!

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