CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago is set to host the All-Star Game, welcoming the league’s elite athletes to the Windy City.
Showcasing top-tier talent, this illustrious event shines a spotlight on the league’s standout figures. Despite the absence of Chicago Sky players on the All-Star lineup, the city offers a myriad of activities celebrating the league and the greatness of women’s sports.
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Angel Reese, who once played for the Chicago Sky and now suits up for the Atlanta Dream, has earned a spot as an All-Star Reserve. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark from the Indiana Fever has secured her place as a starter.
Fans are eagerly gearing up long before the exciting tip-off, as the WNBA’s All-Star Weekend kicks into high gear.
A lively crowd filled Wintrust Arena for Friday’s action-packed WNBA Skills Challenge, showcasing a vibrant enthusiasm that many say illustrates the tremendous progress women’s sports have made recently.
Several fans pointed to the contrast between this year’s event and previous years, describing a sold-out arena and growing enthusiasm around the league.
“It’s crazy how it’s sold out now, and like a couple years ago, it was like barely filling,” fan Elise Brown said.
Fans said the event highlighted the increasing popularity of women’s sports and the impact athletes are having on younger generations. Azzi Fudd’s performance, which earned her the 3-point championship, served as inspiration for some young attendees.
“When I was like watching her shoot, and I was like, wow, I wanted to be like that because like I used to play basketball, but I had quit because of like I thought I was bad and stuff. And then like watching her, I was like, okay, I can revisit that moment,” fan Khloe Jointer said.
Others said the event represented more than competition on the court.
“Just seeing strong women do what they do, be themselves, and be supported and loved for it is incredible,” fan Hannah Moore said.
The event drew longtime WNBA supporters as well as newer fans, with many describing the Skills Challenge as a must-see experience.
Taking center court at McCormick Place is WNBA Live, an interactive fan festival featuring special appearances and more.
“You want to pick up a ball and shoot, if you want to take photo ops, if you want customized merch, there is so many different things that fans can do here” said Amanda Allhouse, WNBA senior director.
This is the second time Chicago has hosted the game.
Like in past years, along with the premier event, the goal is to deliver an unforgettable fan experience.
“I just love basketball in general so seeing all of it and playing, it’s fun to me,” fan Jimmy Hanson said. “Any kind of basketball skill is great.”
Earlier in the week, Mayor Brandon Johnson provided 500 children with tickets to attend the festivities. He said the effort aligns with broader investments aimed at encouraging participation in sports.
“Those tickets, as well as the investments that we’re making in our park districts to encourage our young ladies, our young women to become more involved in sports,” Johnson said.
Fans said the increased attention on women’s sports is long overdue.
“Everyone watches women’s sports. They say it for a reason. So, we’re here. We’re finally getting the attention we deserve,” fan Queenie Dominique said.
The weekend’s excitement extended beyond Wintrust Arena. Players also had the opportunity to practice at the Obama Presidential Center, where former President Barack Obama made a surprise appearance.
“All of you are extraordinary and I could not be bigger fans. The way the game has been going lately, the way it’s been picking up, and people paying attention to your excellence, I think, has been something for basketball fans generally, a sight to see,” Obama said.
For many fans, the sold-out crowd and high-profile attention signal continued growth for the league and women’s sports overall.
Asked where that momentum goes from here, Brown offered a simple answer, saying, “Nowhere but up.”
The weekend’s events continue with the WNBA All-Star Game scheduled to take place at the United Center at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.
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