Caitlin Clark has become a major draw for women’s basketball, captivating fans from Iowa to her current team, the Indiana Fever. Known for filling up stadiums with spectators eager to witness her greatness, it was no surprise that the WNBA All-Star game was packed with her supporters. Many fans were excited to see how she would fare against the formidable 2024 Team USA Olympic squad featuring stars like Diana Taurasi, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart. However, some fans received an unexpected and delightful surprise.
During the WNBA All-Star weekend, Clark took part in a playful photobombing spree, popping up in fans’ pictures. The rookie from the Fever enthusiastically embraced this task, unknowingly making dreams come true even before the main event. Her fans loved every moment of this lighthearted interaction.
Clark’s contributions didn’t stop at photobombing. Despite a rough shooting night—hitting only 2 of her 9 field goal attempts and missing all 7 of her three-point tries—her playmaking skills shone brightly. She acted as the floor general during the game, dishing out 10 assists and adding 2 points. Her defensive efforts were also noteworthy; she complemented teammates Arike Ogunbowale and Nneka Ogwumike with two crucial steals that disrupted Team USA’s momentum. Clark also recorded a rebound and a turnover, rounding out her performance in her first WNBA All-Star game, which ended with a 117-109 victory over Team USA.
Caitlin Clark the photobomber 👀 Together with State Farm, the Indiana Fever rookie surprised fans before the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game in Phoenix.
Here are just some of the reactions from fans 🔥 pic.twitter.com/XgIKvMDAl5
— Kit Guinhawa (@BeatKit22) July 20, 2024
Clark’s presence wasn’t the only highlight for the Fever. She came close to breaking Sue Bird’s WNBA All-Star record of 11 assists, finishing just one shy but setting the record for most assists by a rookie in the All-Star game. Meanwhile, Arike Ogunbowale showcased her scoring prowess, tearing apart Team USA’s defense and finishing with 34 points—the most ever scored in a WNBA All-Star game. Ogunbowale was particularly impressive from beyond the arc, hitting 8 of 13 three-pointers, all in the second half.
Angel Reese also made significant contributions, solidifying her potential as a future star. The performances of Reese, Ogunbowale, and Clark sparked discussions about their potential inclusion in Team USA for the Paris Olympics. Their dominant display in the All-Star game demonstrated their capability of representing the United States on the world stage.
As WNBA All-Star Weekend concluded, it was clear that Clark, Ogunbowale, and Reese left a lasting impression. Their performances not only entertained fans but also hinted at a bright future for women’s basketball, with these players potentially leading the charge for Team USA in future international competitions.
