Phoenix, Arizona – The 2024 WNBA All-Star roster announcement revealed that standout rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese will be teammates representing Team WNBA in the upcoming game against Team USA on July 20. Clark, the Indiana Fever guard and No. 1 draft pick in April, alongside Reese, the Chicago Sky forward with a WNBA-record 11 straight double-doubles, bring a dynamic energy to the league as they compete for the rookie of the year title.
The two players, previously viewed as rivals since the 2023 NCAA final, will now join forces on the same team during the much-anticipated All-Star Game. Clark is joined by two of her Fever teammates, Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell, on Team WNBA. Additionally, the Connecticut Sun will have DeWanna Bonner and Brionna Jones representing them in the game.
While the American 5-on-5 Olympians will make up Team USA, Team WNBA will include 2024 Olympian Dearica Hamby from the Los Angeles Sparks, who will compete on the U.S. 3×3 team. The game is set to be an exciting matchup with players like Arike Ogunbowale of the Dallas Wings returning to Team WNBA alongside other talented athletes.
Analysts have raised questions about the All-Star roster, highlighting players who may have been snubbed from the selection. Ezi Magbegor from the Seattle Storm, known for her outstanding performances, was notably absent from the lineup despite her impressive stats this season. Additionally, other players like Alanna Smith had strong cases for inclusion in the game.
As the countdown to the All-Star Game begins, fans and experts are discussing the potential impact of certain player duos on the court. Notable matchups will include Jonquel Jones facing off against her Liberty teammate Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu. The game will also feature teammates turned opponents, such as Connecticut’s DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas.
In terms of team dynamics, Team WNBA, led by players like Clark and Ogunbowale, is expected to bring a competitive edge to the game. However, Team USA, boasting a roster of talented athletes, aims to redeem themselves after their loss to WNBA stars in the previous All-Star Game. With both teams ready to showcase their skills, the upcoming matchup promises to be a thrilling event for basketball fans nationwide.