The upcoming WNBA All-Star game is particularly special because the two superstar rookies, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, will operate as teammates for the first time in their careers. They will join forces on Team WNBA and face off against Team USA on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. EST.
They are both incredibly skilled players, but their history as opponents is what makes this collaboration worth the anticipation. Ever since their matchup in the 2023 NCAA March Madness championship, where Reese and LSU defeated Clark’s Iowa squad, the two have served as the faces of the new generation of women’s basketball.
Though proving themselves as two standout players in college, some critics and sports analysts were unsure how their skill would transfer to the WNBA. Many wondered how they would adapt to the high level of expertise in the league, and it’s safe to say they are adjusting exceptionally well.
On July 17, Clark broke the WNBA record for assists in a game with 19. She also set a franchise record with the Indiana Fever, accumulating 202 assists thus far in a season. Clark averages 17.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game.
Reese is also building her legacy as a record-breaker after securing 15 consecutive double-doubles. She surpassed Candace Parker (12) and is now leading the league. The Chicago Sky forward is averaging 13.5 points, 12 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game with the Sky.
With stat lines such as these, many believe Clark’s 3-point and assisting capabilities will complement Reese’s dominant post-play. Their competitive energies and undeniable star power will surely uplift Team WNBA and possibly lead them to victory over Team USA.
Both of these highly esteemed players have expressed their admiration for one another and recognize their role in the growth of women’s basketball. On a recent episode of NBA Today, Reese expressed that this is just the beginning of their stardom.
“We’re going to be playing together for a while,” said Reese. “I know we’ll be All-Stars again, and hopefully in 2028 we’ll be Olympians together too.”
These two have only scratched the surface of their greatness so far. After the Olympic break, they will continue on their quest for the Rookie of the Year award. The winner is to be announced in October.