The WNBA All-Star weekend has wrapped up with remarkable success, following the All-Star team’s 117-109 victory over the U.S. Olympic team. The league, which has been setting record numbers in viewership, ratings, and merchandise sales, will now enter a nearly month-long hiatus due to the Paris Olympics. The opening ceremony of the Olympics will take place this Friday, July 26, featuring 3.72 miles river parade along the Seine in the heart of Paris.

“We knew after our little 30-minute practice yesterday that we were going to win,” Reese said. “The tone was set.” Reese’s post-victory comments might seem arrogant but highlighted the team’s high confidence heading into the game. After all, they played against what is supposed to be the best in the world and who will surely win the gold medal easily, I doubt that an Olympic’s opponent would cause them more difficulty in Paris.

Though it was just an exhibition match, the absence of Reese and especially Clark from the Olympics added an extra spark for these players to prove their readiness for such a prestigious assignment. Now they have to wait four years to participate in Los Angeles 2028 and who knows, maybe one of them will already have a ring under their finger.

How Did Clark and Reese Perform?

Rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese made a significant impact in their first All-Star game, with fan voting up 600% from last year. Despite the much-discussed rivalry between them, no tension was evident as teammates during the game. In fact, Clark’s record-setting 10th assist went to Reese, who finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds, becoming the first rookie to achieve a double-double in an All-Star game. This performance clearly underscores the message these two players are sending as they propel the WNBA to unprecedented heights within their first three months as professionals.

While the official viewership numbers are yet to be released, it’s anticipated that this All-Star game will be the most watched in history. Last year’s game averaged 850,000 viewers and peaked at 986,000, making it the most-watched WNBA All-Star game in 16 years. Considering that the most-watched WNBA All-Star game ever averaged 1.4 million viewers and that 11 of Caitlin Clark‘s games have averaged that number so far this season, this year’s All-Star game is poised to set new records. As soon as more information becomes available, I will update you.

The WNBA’s growth and the excitement surrounding its rising stars ensure that the league will continue to thrive, both during the Olympic break and beyond.