Arike Ogunbowale set a WNBA All-Star scoring record with 34 points as the WNBA team defeated the U.S. Olympic team 117-109. This was the second consecutive win for the WNBA All-Star team over the Olympians, led by Ogunbowale who was also MVP of the game. The loss for the U.S. team comes ahead of the upcoming Olympics in Paris, as they aim for their eighth consecutive gold medal. Despite the Americans’ efforts, they could not match the depth and talent of the WNBA All-Stars, with Ogunbowale dominating in the second half with 21 points in the third quarter alone.
The game featured the All-Star debuts of rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who have helped elevate the WNBA with record attendance and viewership. The pair displayed their talent with Clark recording 10 assists, including one to Reese, who finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds. The game was held in Phoenix to celebrate Diana Taurasi’s 20-year career and Brittney Griner’s return from wrongful detainment in Russia.
Despite the hype surrounding the All-Star Game, U.S. coach Cheryl Reeve acknowledged the difficulty of coaching amidst the events surrounding the game. The U.S. team, which only practiced together for two days, was led by Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, but could not overcome the strong performance of the WNBA All-Stars.
Overall, the WNBA All-Stars showcased their talent and depth as they secured another victory over the U.S. Olympic team, setting the stage for an exciting competition at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
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