In a thrilling WNBA All-Star Game on Saturday night, Arike Ogunbowale set a new scoring record with 34 points to lead the WNBA team to a 117-109 victory over the U.S. Olympic team. This victory marks the second consecutive win for the WNBA All-Star team over the Olympians, with Ogunbowale earning MVP honors in both games.
Ogunbowale’s dominant performance in the second half, where she scored all her points, helped the WNBA All-Stars turn a halftime deficit into a commanding lead. Despite the efforts of the U.S. team, led by Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, they couldn’t contain Ogunbowale’s scoring spree.
The game also featured the debut of rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who added excitement and energy to the contest. The pair, who have been instrumental in the WNBA’s success this season, showcased their skills with impressive performances.
The game, held in Phoenix to honor Diana Taurasi’s 20-year career with the Mercury and Brittney Griner’s return from Russia, drew significant attention and excitement from fans. Taurasi, playing in her 11th All-Star Game, received a warm reception from the crowd.
Despite the loss, the U.S. Olympic team remains focused on their goal of winning a seventh consecutive gold medal at the upcoming Olympics in Paris. The team will continue their preparations with an exhibition game against Germany before heading to France.
Overall, the WNBA All-Star Game provided a captivating display of talent, with Ogunbowale’s record-setting performance and the emergence of young stars like Clark and Reese adding to the excitement of the event.
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