WNBA All-Stars Defeat Team USA Just Days Before Olympics

WNBA All-Stars Defeat Team USA Just Days Before Olympics

In a thrilling showdown, Arike Ogunbowale set a new WNBA All-Star scoring record with 34 points, leading the WNBA All-Star team to a 117-109 victory over the U.S. Olympic team on Saturday night in Phoenix. This marks the second consecutive win for the WNBA All-Stars over the Olympians, repeating their 2021 success where Ogunbowale also earned the MVP title.

The U.S. Olympic team, despite their setback, hopes to replicate their 2021 journey when they went on to secure their seventh consecutive Olympic gold medal. The loss on Saturday highlighted the depth and talent of the WNBA All-Stars, a team that showcased exceptional skill and teamwork. Caitlin Clark, making her All-Star debut, contributed significantly to the victory, teaming up effectively with fellow rookie Angel Reese.

Ogunbowale, playing for the Dallas Wings, dominated the game, particularly in the second half. She scored all her points during this period, taking over in the third quarter with a remarkable 21 points. Her performance included six of ten shots made and five three-pointers, leaving the U.S. team struggling to contain her. Despite their efforts, the U.S. defense couldn't stop Ogunbowale's offensive onslaught.

By the end of the third quarter, the WNBA All-Stars had overturned a two-point halftime deficit to lead 88-79. Ogunbowale's excellence continued into the fourth quarter, where she broke Jewell Loyd's All-Star scoring record of 31 points set last year with a late three-pointer.

The U.S. team, having only practiced together for two days, couldn't mount a serious comeback. Breanna Stewart led the team with 31 points, while A'ja Wilson added 22. Despite their loss, the team remains optimistic as they prepare for the upcoming Olympics in Paris. Their next exhibition game is against Germany in London before heading to France, where they are grouped with Belgium, Japan, and Germany in the Olympic pool.

This defeat came shortly after the U.S. men's Olympic team narrowly beat South Sudan by one point in an exhibition game in London, showcasing the competitive spirit and resilience of U.S. athletes across sports.

WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has noted the rise of women's sports, and performances like Ogunbowale's only further highlight the incredible talent present in the WNBA. Fans can look forward to more exciting moments as the Olympics approach, with streaming available on Peacock starting with the Opening Ceremony on July 26.

Arike Ogunbowale's outstanding performance once again underscores her capabilities and the depth of talent in the WNBA, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting Olympic competition.