Former college basketball stars Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso recently made their WNBA debuts with the Chicago Sky in a preseason matchup against the Minnesota Lynx. However, fans looking to watch the game via the WNBA app were disappointed to find that the platform was not able to broadcast the game. The league’s app incorrectly listed the game as available, causing confusion among viewers. The WNBA later clarified that only Caitlin Clark’s debut with the Indiana Fever was being broadcast. Despite this, a social media user stepped in and started an impromptu livestream of the game, garnering hundreds of thousands of views.
Viewership numbers on the livestream varied, with the video reaching about 434,000 total views and peaking at 173,381 live viewers. After the Minnesota Lynx defeated the Chicago Sky 92-81, Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve jokingly suggested that the social media user who streamed the game should receive compensation for their efforts. Reeve emphasized the rapid growth and excitement surrounding the WNBA, noting that it is important for the league to capitalize on this momentum. She also acknowledged the positive impact of players like Caitlin Clark generating interest and excitement for the league as a whole.
In the game, Angel Reese tallied 13 points and nine rebounds in 24 minutes, while Kamilla Cardoso contributed six points and four rebounds in 13 minutes. Sky coach Teresa Weatherspoon expressed satisfaction with the rookies’ debuts, emphasizing that the team is in a good place and the rookies are being guided and supported by the team leaders. She highlighted the importance of building confidence in the young players as they navigate the transition to the professional level. Overall, Weatherspoon emphasized that the team is going through a learning process and is on the right path.
Cheryl Reeve also emphasized the need for the WNBA to capitalize on the increasing excitement and interest in the league, particularly surrounding notable players like Caitlin Clark. She highlighted the importance of recognizing and leveraging the general excitement around the WNBA to ensure that it continues to grow and thrive. Reeve emphasized the accelerated growth of the league and the need for teams and organizations to adapt to this changing landscape to avoid being left behind. Ultimately, she encouraged a proactive approach to capitalize on the current momentum and ensure the continued success and growth of the WNBA.
The WNBA’s preseason matchups, including the debuts of promising young players like Reese, Cardoso, and Clark, have generated a significant amount of excitement and interest among fans. The impromptu livestream of the game between the Chicago Sky and Minnesota Lynx highlighted the enthusiasm for women’s basketball and the growing popularity of the league. As the WNBA continues to evolve and attract new fans, teams and organizations must adapt and capitalize on these opportunities to ensure long-term success and growth. With a focus on supporting and developing young talent, fostering confidence in players, and leveraging the general excitement around the game, the league is poised for continued growth and success in the future.
