Sheryl Swoopes shared her unexpected selections for the Caitlin Clark WNBA All-Star Team ahead of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, set for July 19 in Indianapolis at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Clark, a 23-year-old Indiana Fever guard and All-Star captain, secured the first pick due to her record-breaking fan votes, inspiring this imaginative team draft exercise.
Sheryl Swoopes Channels Caitlin Clark’s Perspective for All-Star Draft
As the WNBA All-Star Weekend approaches, three-time MVP Sheryl Swoopes took on the task of envisioning an All-Star roster from Caitlin Clark’s point of view. Clark, who leads her team with averages of 18.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game this season, was chosen as a starter and captain despite having played only nine games before the voting closed. She amassed over 1.29 million votes, securing the top draft position to assemble her team from 20 elite All-Stars against fellow captain Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx.
Team CC Draft Highlights and Key Choices
Swoopes tapped Las Vegas Aces forward and reigning WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson with the first pick, establishing a strong foundation for Team CC. Staying loyal to Clark’s preferences, Swoopes also selected Clark’s Fever teammates Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell. Her focus on cohesion extended to drafting two rookie All-Stars from the Washington Mystics, Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron. Additionally, Seattle Storm standouts Skylar Diggins and Gabby Williams joined her lineup, emphasizing team chemistry.
Opposing co-host Terrika Foster-Brasby, representing Napheesa Collier’s side, strategically chose Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers early on to prevent her inclusion on Clark’s team. Foster-Brasby’s squad included three former UConn Huskies — Collier, Bueckers, and New York Liberty’s Breanna Stewart — reflecting their collegiate ties as a draft strategy.
Notable Omissions and Strategic Decisions in the Draft
Despite regular collaborations with Angel Reese, including guest appearances on Reese’s Unapologetically Angel podcast, Swoopes opted not to draft the Chicago Sky star. Clark and Reese had previously teamed up during the 2024 All-Star Game. This decision highlighted Swoopes’ commitment to crafting a roster aligned with Clark’s preferences and team dynamics rather than public expectations.
This draft exercise highlighted the strong relationships and strategic choices influencing All-Star team formations, with Swoopes carefully balancing star power and player connections. The lineup selections offer insights into how team captains might assemble their squads under competitive conditions during the upcoming All-Star event.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark was spotted in the same box as Swift at Arrowhead Stadium for the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans on Saturday. This marked the first time Clark and Swift attended a game together. Clark mentioned that Swift had invited her earlier this season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift watched the Chiefs divisional home game against the Houston Texans. She was sitting beside Caitlin Clark, a WNBA star. Clark attended the game because Swift invited her. This invitation came shortly after an Indiana Fever player mentioned it.