The 2024 WNBA All-Star Game witnessed a record-breaking spectacle as Arike Ogunbowale, Caitlin Clark, and Angel Reese led Team WNBA to a stunning 117-109 victory over the U.S. women's Olympic basketball team. Ogunbowale's 34-point performance set a new scoring record for the All-Star Game, while Clark's 10 assists established a rookie record. Reese's double-double marked another historic milestone.
The Footprint Center in Phoenix was the stage for an unforgettable night as the WNBA All-Star Game showcased some of the league's brightest stars. Team WNBA, led by a trio of record-breaking performances, triumphed over the U.S. women's Olympic basketball team, 117-109.
Historic Night in Phoenix: WNBA All-Stars Shatter Records, Top Olympic Team
Dallas Wings' sharpshooter Arike Ogunbowale emerged as the scoring sensation of the night, etching her name into the history books with a remarkable 34 points. The explosive guard put on a mesmerizing display in the second half, pouring in 21 points in the third quarter alone. Her offensive outburst propelled Team WNBA to a commanding lead.
Indiana Fever rookie Caitlin Clark showcased her exceptional playmaking abilities, setting a new record for assists by a rookie in the All-Star Game. The young guard dished out 10 assists, just one shy of Sue Bird's single-game record. Clark's court vision and pinpoint passes created numerous scoring opportunities for her teammates.
Historic Night in Phoenix: WNBA All-Stars Shatter Records, Top Olympic Team
Chicago Sky's rookie Angel Reese had a standout performance, becoming the first rookie to record a double-double in the All-Star Game. Reese's all-around game included 11 points and 11 rebounds, demonstrating her impressive versatility.
Team USA, preparing for their Olympic run in Paris, faced a wake-up call in their pre-Olympic exhibition. Despite Breanna Stewart's 31-point, 10-rebound effort and A'ja Wilson's 22-point, six-rebound performance, the team struggled to match the intensity and execution of Team WNBA.
Historic Night in Phoenix: WNBA All-Stars Shatter Records, Top Olympic Team
Brittney Griner contributed 10 points and seven rebounds for Team USA, but the team failed to capitalize on their second-chance opportunities, a key area of focus ahead of the Olympics.
Diana Taurasi, a veteran leader on Team USA, acknowledged the need for improvement after the game. "We gotta come to play, no matter who we are," she said, emphasizing the importance of execution and discipline.
Historic Night in Phoenix: WNBA All-Stars Shatter Records, Top Olympic Team
The historic night in Phoenix showcased the rising stars and exceptional talent of the WNBA. As the league continues to grow and inspire, fans can anticipate more thrilling performances and record-breaking moments in the years to come.
