• Napheesa Collier, captain of the winning team, delivered a record-breaking performance, scoring 13 of 16 field goals
WNBA All-Star Game 2025 – Indianapolis transformed into the epicentre of women’s basketball on July 19, 2025, as the WNBA All-Star Game lit up Gainbridge Fieldhouse with electrifying performances, emotional tributes, and a powerful message from players demanding equity. Though Caitlin Clark, one of the league’s brightest stars, was side-lined due to injury, her presence loomed large throughout the weekend, both on and off the court.
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Setting the Stage: Indianapolis Welcomes the WNBA
The city of Indianapolis, home to the Indiana Fever, embraced the All-Star festivities with open arms. From fan events to media activations, the weekend was a celebration of the league’s growth, diversity, and future. The arena was packed, the energy palpable, and the spotlight firmly on the women who continue to redefine professional basketball.
Despite missing the game due to a groin injury, Caitlin Clark, the Fever’s second-year sensation—was voted as one of the team captains, receiving the highest number of fan votes across the league. Her leadership and charisma were evident as she coached from the sidelines, cheered on teammates, and participated in off-court events that made her the emotional heartbeat of the weekend.
Game Recap: Team Collier Dominates
The All-Star Game itself was a high-scoring spectacle, with Team Collier defeating Team Clark by a score of 151–131. The matchup may not have been tightly contested, but it was historic in many ways:
- Napheesa Collier, captain of the winning team, delivered a record-breaking performance, scoring 13 of 16 field goals and setting a new WNBA All-Star single-game points record.
- The game also saw the highest combined score in All-Star history, underscoring the offensive firepower and entertainment value of the league’s top talent.
Standout Performers
While Collier stole the show, several other players made their mark:
- Aliyah Boston (Indiana Fever): Played with poise and precision, representing the host team with pride.
- Kelsey Mitchell (Indiana Fever): Took on the role of unofficial host, welcoming fans and energizing the crowd.
- Nneka Ogwumike (Seattle Storm): Brought veteran leadership and flair, both on the court and in behind-the-scenes moments.
Off-Court Highlights: “Pay Us What You Owe Us”
Beyond the dazzling dunks and deep threes, the All-Star Game became a platform for advocacy. Players wore custom warm-up shirts emblazoned with the message: “Pay us what you owe us”, a direct call for improved compensation and a fairer revenue share.
During WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s speech, fans in the arena chanted “Pay them more!”, amplifying the players’ message and showing solidarity with their cause. The moment was raw, real, and emblematic of the league’s growing voice in social and economic justice.
Behind the Scenes: “Stud Budz” and Twitch Takeover
Adding a layer of authenticity and humor to the weekend was the viral Twitch stream hosted by Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman of the Minnesota Lynx. Dubbed “Stud Budz”, the stream gave fans a candid look at locker room banter, hotel room chats, and even dance parties featuring Commissioner Engelbert grooving to Crime Mob’s “Knuck If You Buck”.
These moments humanized the players and gave fans a deeper connection to the personalities behind the jerseys.
Caitlin Clark’s Absence and Tribute
Though she couldn’t play, Caitlin Clark’s impact was undeniable. She was seen coaching from the bench, interacting with fans, and even sharing a heartfelt message on social media the day after the game:
“Incredible weekend in Indy!! Our organization gave everything to make this the best WNBA All-Star Weekend yet—and it delivered in every way. Grateful to call this city home and beyond thankful for the incredible fans who brought the energy and made it special ”
Her tribute to Indianapolis and the Fever organization resonated deeply, especially as she continues to recover from injuries that have sidelined her for much of the season.
College Stars and NIL Deals: Unrivaled’s Big Announcement
The All-Star weekend wasn’t just about the pros. The upstart winter league Unrivaled, co-founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, announced NIL deals with 14 top college players, including:
- JuJu Watkins
- Flau’jae Johnson
- Hannah Hidalgo
- Azzi Fudd
- Olivia Miles
These signings signal a growing pipeline of talent and a new era of empowerment for women’s basketball players at all levels.
Fan Experience and Attendance
The All-Star Game was a sellout, with fans traveling from across the country to witness the spectacle. The 3-point contest, skills challenge, and fan fest were packed, and local businesses reported a surge in foot traffic and sales.
Players like Kelsey Plum noted that this was the most vibrant All-Star weekend they’d ever experienced, citing the energy, attendance, and overall vibe as unmatched.
Viral Moments and Social Media Buzz
From Clark’s coaching moments to Collier’s record-breaking performance, social media was ablaze with highlights:
- TikTok clips of locker room antics and fan reactions
- Instagram stories from players showcasing behind-the-scenes fun
- Twitter threads dissecting the game and the players’ advocacy efforts
The WNBA’s digital footprint continues to grow, and this weekend was a masterclass in engagement.
Final Thoughts: A Weekend to Remember – WNBA All-Star Game 2025
The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game was more than a midseason exhibition—it was a cultural moment. It celebrated the league’s stars, amplified their voices, and showcased the depth of talent and passion that defines women’s basketball.
From Caitlin Clark’s heartfelt tribute to Napheesa Collier’s historic performance, the weekend in Indianapolis was a reminder that the WNBA is not just growing, it’s thriving.
Caitlin Clark’s Emotional Impact: The Heart and Hustle Behind the Women’s Basketball Renaissance