In an electrifying WNBA All-Star Game, Arike Ogunbowale’s record-breaking performance led Team WNBA to a 117-109 victory over Team USA at Footprint Center. Ogunbowale’s 34 points set a new All-Star Game record, earning her the MVP title for the second time in her career.
At halftime, with zero points and Team WNBA trailing by two, Ogunbowale received a challenge from Coach Cheryl Miller to step up and play her game. Ogunbowale responded in spectacular fashion, scoring 21 points in the third quarter, the most in a single quarter in All-Star Game history. She finished the game with eight three-pointers and six assists.
“I wasn’t expecting her to say my name,” Ogunbowale said of Miller’s halftime speech. “She just told me to take a deep breath and play my game.”
Team USA, filled with veteran stars preparing for the Paris Olympics, was led by Breanna Stewart’s 31 points and 10 rebounds. A’ja Wilson added 22 points, and Diana Taurasi contributed 14 points in front of her hometown fans. Despite their efforts, Team USA could not overcome Ogunbowale’s explosive second half.
Allisha Gray added 16 points for Team WNBA, while Nneka Ogwumike scored 14 and Kelsey Mitchell chipped in with 13. Rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese also made significant contributions. Reese recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Clark dished out 10 assists, nearly setting a new All-Star Game record.
The game was played with intensity and competitiveness, with both teams executing strong defensive strategies and well-coordinated offensive plays. Team USA even used a full-court press in the second quarter, showcasing their readiness for the Olympics.
Ogunbowale’s performance was particularly noteworthy given her withdrawal from the national team pool earlier this year due to politics in team selection. Her outstanding play in the All-Star Game proved her elite status in the league.
Team WNBA coach Cheryl Miller captured the spirit of the event, saying, “I’m having fun!” during a huddle, reflecting the joy and competitiveness of the players on the court.
Ogunbowale’s 34 points were the second-most scored in a half in WNBA history, just behind Riquna Williams’ 35 points in a 2013 regular-season game. Her MVP win places her among WNBA legends like Lisa Leslie, Maya Moore, and Swin Cash, who also have multiple All-Star Game MVP titles.
The 2024 WNBA All-Star Game highlighted the league’s incredible talent and depth, setting the stage for an exciting second half of the season and the upcoming Paris Olympics.
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