The 2024 WNBA All-Star Game is set to take place in Phoenix, Arizona, on Saturday night, featuring a lineup of talented players from both the WNBA and the U.S. national team. This exhibition game serves as a tune-up before the national team heads to the Summer Olympics in pursuit of an eighth consecutive gold medal.
One of the highlights of this year’s All-Star Game is the inclusion of rookie sensations Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who will be showcasing their skills alongside seasoned veterans and fellow standout players. The event marks the fourth time in the history of the WNBA All-Star Game that such a format has been used, with previous matchups between Team USA and non-Olympic WNBA players taking place in 2004, 2010, and 2021.
In the 2021 edition of the game, the WNBA players secured a victory over the national team, with standout performances from Arike Ogunbowale and Jonquel Jones. This year, players like DeWanna Bonner, Nneka Ogwumike, and Dearica Hamby will join Clark and Reese on the WNBA team, with Hamby being the sole player set to participate in the Olympic Games this summer.
Ogwumike, a nine-time All-Star, will bring her experience and leadership to the game, while veterans like Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner will represent Team USA. Taurasi, a six-time Olympian, expressed her excitement for the opportunity to compete with the best in the world and make amends for past performances.
The national team is headlined by A’ja Wilson, the reigning league MVP, who leads the WNBA in scoring and rebounding this season. Wilson will be supported by former MVP Breanna Stewart, Jewell Loyd, Chelsea Gray, and Alyssa Thomas, among others.
For Clark and Reese, the All-Star Game marks a unique opportunity to showcase their talents and form new partnerships on the court. The rivalry between the two rookies dates back to their collegiate days, but now they have the chance to join forces and make an impact in the WNBA.
The All-Star Game is already sold out, indicating the excitement and anticipation surrounding the event. Fans can catch all the action live on ABC at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday night, as the best players in the league and on the national team come together for a memorable showcase of women’s basketball talent.
–Field Level Media
