The WNBA All-Star Game will take place on Saturday, July 19, at 8:30 p.m. ET, broadcast live on ABC from Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Fans will see many of the league’s elite players compete, though Fever star Caitlin Clark will be sidelined due to a groin injury. Still, Fever teammates Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell will have the platform to shine on their home court during this highly anticipated event.
For those following the excitement with an eye on WNBA betting and player props, FanDuel Sportsbook offers competitive odds, including the possibility of wagering on Angel Reese WNBA All-Star MVP honors during Saturday’s festivities.
Unique Rules Elevate the Pace and Scoring Potential of the Game
This year’s All-Star Game features several innovative rules designed to increase the tempo and scoring opportunities. Each team will have two 4-point circles on either side of the court, positioned 28 feet from the rim, offering potentially game-changing long-range shots. The shot clock has been shortened from 24 seconds to 20 seconds, though it resets to 14 seconds following an offensive rebound that contacts the rim. Additionally, teams can make live substitutions similar to hockey, with one sub allowed at a time when the team making the change controls the ball in the backcourt.
Free throws are suspended until the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and any overtime periods; fouls before then result in awarding the maximum free throws a player would have attempted. These rule changes have pushed the over/under total points at FanDuel from 246.5 to a remarkable 258.5, promising a fast, high-scoring exhibition.
Evaluating Front-Runners for All-Star Game MVP
Among the potential MVP candidates, several names stand out. Players like Sabrina Ionescu and Napheesa Collier are favored due to their shooting range and scoring ability, especially considering the new 4-point shot rule. Ionescu holds +700 odds, second only to Collier’s +410, while Indiana stars Kelsey Mitchell (+1300) and Aliyah Boston (+2100) are also noteworthy contenders, bolstered by the home-court advantage in Indianapolis.
Despite these strong candidates, Angel Reese emerges as a top choice for MVP for a few compelling reasons.
Angel Reese’s Rising Impact and Statistical Dominance
Reese’s recent performance has been exceptional; she is averaging 19.1 points per game on 52.7% shooting with 14.4 rebounds over her last eight contests. Though she missed the Chicago Sky’s latest outing due to a leg injury, coach Tyler Marsh described it as precautionary, so there is little concern about her readiness for the All-Star Game.
Her ability to excel in rebounding is particularly significant given the added long-range shots creating more rebound chances. Reese’s impressive debut in last year’s All-Star Game, where she posted 12 points and 11 rebounds in just 18 minutes, suggests she can elevate her production with increased minutes and the game’s faster pace.
Potential Record-Breaking Performance Could Secure MVP Honors
The current WNBA All-Star Game rebound record stands at 19, held jointly by Sylvia Fowles, Teaira McCowan, and Tina Charles. If Reese manages to secure 20 rebounds and add 20 points to her name, she would not only break the rebound record but also likely cement herself as MVP.
The game’s new flow and 4-point shooting opportunities boost the chances for such a 20-20 performance, presenting Reese with a prime chance to make a historic statement and ignite the ongoing rivalry sparked by Caitlin Clark’s absence from the game.
“I don’t wager on exhibition events, but if you want a little fun for tonight’s WNBA All-Star events, this is what I would play if I had to make a suggestion.”
“She has the chance to make a big statement on Clark’s homecourt and fan the flames for that rivalry.”
“She did miss the Sky’s last game with a leg injury, which Sky coach Tyler Marsh deemed due to precautionary reasons, so I’m not too worried there.”
“If Reese can get 20 rebounds this game to break the All-Star Game record and even put forth a 20-20 effort, I have a strong feeling that award is hers.”
What Angel Reese’s MVP Bid Means for the League
Angel Reese’s expected performance at the All-Star Game not only highlights her individual talent but also underscores the growing competitive intensity within the WNBA. Her ability to shine on a national stage has the potential to energize fans, increase viewership, and enhance the league’s visibility overall. Should she capture the MVP award by breaking records, it will add momentum to her rising profile and fuel discussions about her role as one of the top stars in the sport.
As the game kicks off, Reese’s combination of determination, skill, and the evolving All-Star format make her a captivating player to watch, setting the stage for an unforgettable showcase on Saturday night.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Reese shared in a TikTok video late Sunday that she injured her hand. She explained she fell on it and now has a tiny bone crack.
The doctors informed her she could choose between having surgery or not.
Q. What was Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Prior to their last match against the Dallas Wings, where the Sky won 87-76, Angel Reese was noted on the injury report. Reese was marked as questionable because of a leg injury. However, she played, and Chicago coach Tyler Marsh stated the injury wasn’t severe.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Angel inherited her basketball skills from her parents, who both played in college and professionally.