Team Clark: Power On, Captain Gone

WNBA All-Star Game Preview: Team Clark Showcases a Blend of Veteran Dominance and Fresh Talent

The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis is set to be a thrilling showcase of the league’s best, even with the absence of hometown favorite Caitlin Clark due to injury. While Clark will be sidelined, her presence as a captain and the roster she assembled promise an exciting contest. This preview highlights the key players on Team Clark, from established superstars to exciting first-time All-Stars.

A’ja Wilson: The Headliner

A’ja Wilson is undoubtedly the centerpiece of Team Clark. Her selection marks her seventh All-Star appearance in eight seasons, a testament to her consistent dominance. The reigning MVP continues to impress, averaging 22.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.

Wilson’s impact extends beyond individual statistics. She has led the Las Vegas Aces to back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023, solidifying her status as one of the league’s premier players. With three MVP awards, two Defensive Player of the Year titles, and five All-WNBA Team selections, Wilson’s resume speaks for itself. At 28 years old, she is on track to become one of the greatest players in WNBA history, with a Hall of Fame career already within reach. Watching Wilson compete in the All-Star Game is a must-see for any basketball fan.

First-Time All-Stars Eager to Make Their Mark

Team Clark also features five players making their All-Star debut: Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, Brittney Sykes, Kayla Thornton, and Gabby Williams. These players represent the next generation of WNBA talent and bring a mix of skill and excitement to the game.

• Sonia Citron: Drafted third overall by the Washington Mystics, Citron has quickly established herself as a promising rookie. She is averaging 14.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game and was also selected to participate in the 3-Point Contest.
• Kiki Iriafen: Another standout rookie from the Mystics, Iriafen has impressed as the team’s starting power forward. She recorded double-doubles in four of her first five games and has already surpassed Chamique Holdsclaw for the most double-doubles by a Mystics rookie.
• Brittney Sykes: Named as an injury replacement for Clark, Sykes is an explosive guard known for her clutch plays on defense. She is also averaging a career-high 17.1 points per game for the Mystics.
• Kayla Thornton: A key player for the Golden State Valkyries, Thornton embodies her team’s tough, defensive-minded approach. She is posting career-highs across the board, averaging 14.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game.
• Gabby Williams: Williams has continued her rise as one of the WNBA’s most athletic players. She is having a career year, posting personal bests in scoring (13.2) and assists (4.4) while leading the league in steals per game (2.4).

Fever Players Representing Indianapolis

Despite Clark’s absence, the Indiana Fever will be well-represented in the All-Star Game. Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell will join Clark as the three Fever players initially selected to participate.

• Kelsey Mitchell: A high-scoring guard known for her deep 3-point attempts and aggressive drives to the basket, Mitchell is averaging 19.1 points per game and continues to be a consistent threat from beyond the arc.
• Aliyah Boston: A three-time All-Star, Boston has been a consistent force for the Fever. She is averaging a career-high 15.6 points per game on 56.3 percent shooting from the field. Boston has also showcased her playmaking abilities, averaging 3.7 assists per game.

What to Expect

The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the league’s top talent. While Caitlin Clark’s absence is a disappointment, the game will still feature a star-studded roster, highlighted by A’ja Wilson’s dominance and the emergence of several exciting first-time All-Stars. The Indiana Fever will also be well-represented, with Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston ready to showcase their skills. Basketball fans should tune in to witness this celebration of the WNBA’s best.