How will Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese impact the All-Star Game? Our WNBA experts debate

The Athletic has introduced a new series of sports debates featuring two writers discussing a specific topic. In this edition focused on the WNBA, Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman preview the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game.

Sabreena Merchant: Ben, are you ready for the scorching 110-degree weather in Phoenix this weekend?

Ben Pickman: Getting straight to the tough questions, eh? In short, no, but I’m excited for the weekend ahead. Let’s focus on Saturday’s game where the U.S. Olympic team will take on 12 WNBA All-Stars at 8:30 p.m. (ET). How do you think Team USA will approach this showcase?

Merchant: In the 2021 edition, Team USA played with a competitive spirit, aiming to win by fielding a lineup closest to their starting group. It resulted in a closely contested game, ending in a 93-85 victory for Team WNBA. With this being their toughest challenge before the Olympics, Team USA should treat it as a real competition.

Pickman: Team USA hasn’t forgotten the defeat in 2021 and is determined to perform better this time. However, they must also be cautious considering the injuries plaguing some key players like Stewart, Collier, Taurasi, and Thomas. The exhibition nature of the game conflicts with the need for caution due to these injuries.

That’s 1x All-Star Barbie to you 🌟

Angel Reese & the WNBA All-Stars get set to take on the USA Women’s National Team at the 2024 @ATT #WNBAAllStar Game on July 20th in Phoenix, AZ.

Tune-in July 20 at 8:30pm ET on ABC to watch the rook make her first appearance! pic.twitter.com/ZB3m4ah4lv

— WNBA (@WNBA) July 11, 2024

Merchant: Do you think the injuries will affect Team USA’s approach to the game, even if they were at full strength?

Pickman: In an ideal scenario, the All-Star Game would offer Team USA a chance to test their lineups and build chemistry ahead of the Olympics. Every live rep is valuable, especially in the short time before the Paris Olympics. Assuming this game is meaningful, my starting lineup would include Gray, Ionescu, Collier, Stewart, and Wilson.

Merchant: Loyd could also be a strong candidate for the starting five, given her past performances. It will be interesting to see how coach Cheryl Reeve approaches the lineup, balancing fan expectations with strategic decisions. Taurasi might be a fan-favorite choice for the starting lineup in front of the home crowd.

Pickman: Turning to Team WNBA, who do you think coach Cheryl Miller will start in the lineup?

Merchant: I would go with Clark, McBride, Hamby, Ogwumike, and Jones for the starting lineup based on their performances and versatility. Jones, in particular, is my early pick for the All-Star MVP, considering her past success in All-Star Games.

Pickman: I expect Jones to shine in this game and potentially contend for the MVP award again. However, players like Ogunbowale, McBride, and Bonner could also make a strong case. It will be an exciting matchup between Team WNBA and Team USA.

Merchant: Predicting a win for Team WNBA in this matchup?

Pickman: Absolutely. It’s shaping up to be a thrilling game with standout performances from both sides. Clark and Reese’s debut in the All-Star Game adds another layer of excitement to the event. It will definitely be a must-watch game for WNBA fans.

Merchant: Before we wrap up, any final thoughts or predictions?

Pickman: It would be interesting to see standout plays from rookies like Clark and Reese, as well as potential surprises in the game. With the stage set for an exciting matchup, the WNBA All-Star Game promises to be a memorable event for basketball fans.

(Photo of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese: Melissa Tamez / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)