Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark provided the highlights for the WNBA All-Stars. Someday soon, it might be for the US. – Chicago Tribune

PHOENIX — Caitlin Clark showcased precise passing skills while Angel Reese brought hustle and dominance on the boards.

These two WNBA rookies posed challenges for the U.S. Olympic team on Saturday night. Eventually, they could be the ones shining for the red, white, and blue.

Clark led the team with 10 assists, while Reese contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds in the WNBA All-Stars’ 117-109 triumph over the Olympians during All-Star weekend. The U.S. used this game as a warm-up for the upcoming Paris Olympics next week.

“Hopefully, in four years, we’ll be on the other side playing for the USA,” Reese remarked. “Right now, I’m just focused on enjoying this moment and not looking too far ahead. But I’m really proud of what we accomplished tonight.”

The Clark-Reese rivalry has been a focal point in women’s basketball over the past three years, elevating the sport’s popularity as these two stars transitioned from college to the pros. Playing on the same team for the first time, they demonstrated great chemistry: Clark’s 10th assist came on a clever bounce pass to Reese in the fourth quarter.

Reese mentioned that Clark teased jokingly about the moment on the bench.

“Do you realize how many people are thrilled right now?” Reese recounted Clark’s words.

Reese responded, “I know, this video is going to be everywhere.”

Reese visualized the future of the WNBA and potentially Team USA during Saturday’s game.

“It’s easy to connect with her; I’ve been competing against Caitlin for a long time, so I know her tendencies,” Reese shared. “I suggested running a pick-and-roll… She distributes the ball so well that you always have to be ready.”

All-Star Angel Reese embraces hefty expectations as a rookie for the Chicago Sky: ‘I just let my game speak for itself’

Clark and Reese, both aged 22, kept up a fast-paced offense, catching the U.S. team off guard numerous times. Clark constantly pushed the ball up the court while Reese’s strength and agility posed a challenge that the national team struggled to handle.

Although Clark had a tough shooting night going 2 of 9 from the field, including 0 of 7 from beyond the arc, she compensated with her excellent passing, finishing with four points.

“I enjoy sharing the ball,” Clark expressed. “I like to push the tempo, make the opponents run—sometimes it’s even better when they score because it gives us the chance to quickly advance with the ball.”

The 6-foot-3 Reese made an impact towards the end of the first quarter, grabbing an offensive rebound and a putback that gave the WNBA All-Stars a 24-23 lead after the first quarter.

“Should anyone be surprised?” Reese quipped. “I feel like I deliver this kind of performance every night. The standards are set, and this is what I’m expected to do.”

Early in the second quarter, Clark took the spotlight, beating the press on a fast break and assisting Aliyah Boston for a basket. On the next possession, Clark swiftly found Jonquel Jones down low for another score.

Clark set a WNBA record with 19 assists in a previous game.

Women’s basketball icon Cheryl Miller led the WNBA All-Stars. She had Clark in the starting lineup while Reese came off the bench, but both players closed the game showcasing their impact on the court.

This year’s All-Star Game followed a similar format to three years ago when Arike Ogunbowale secured MVP honors by scoring 26 points, leading the WNBA All-Stars to a 93-85 victory over the U.S. Ogunbowale once again shone on Saturday, scoring 34 points to earn MVP.

Clark expressed her contentment in assisting the U.S. team in their preparation for Paris. In four years, it might be Clark and Reese preparing for the big stage.

“It highlights the quality of this league,” Clark remarked. “It underscores the talent in the league and emphasizes the need to show up prepared every single night.”

Originally Published: July 21, 2024 at 8:29 a.m.