WNBA All-Stars Make Powerful Statement: “Pay Us What You Owe Us” . In a recent match, they even wore jerseys with that saying printed on them to show their determination.

Team Collier Dominates as WNBA All-Star Weekend Showcases Growth, Grit, and Player Power

Team Collier delivered a wire-to-wire blowout in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, seizing the spotlight on a night when Team Clark’s namesake and Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark was sidelined by a groin injury. Despite the absence of several marquee names, the event became a celebration of the league’s surging momentum, player empowerment, and a glimpse into the future of women’s basketball.

A Record-Breaking Night

From the opening tip, the game promised fireworks—literally—thanks to the debut of a 4-point shot marker on the court, ramping up the scoring spectacle. Napheesa Collier’s squad took full advantage, racing ahead in the second quarter and never looking back, leading by 22 at halftime. Collier herself rewrote the All-Star record books with a dazzling 36-point performance, earning her the game’s MVP honors.

Off the bench, Skylar Diggins delivered a historic triple-double—11 points, 11 rebounds, and 15 assists—shattering Sue Bird’s assist record and electrifying her Indiana homecoming crowd.

Team Clark, already hampered by Clark’s injury, also missed Satou Sabally, while A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young played limited minutes. Yet, the packed house in Indianapolis cheered every name, celebrating the depth and resilience of the league’s stars.

Players Demand Respect—and Fair Compensation

The action on the court was matched by a powerful statement off it. All-Stars took the floor in warmup shirts emblazoned with “Pay Us What You Owe Us,” underlining ongoing tensions in collective bargaining negotiations. With the players’ union and the league still far apart on issues like salary and revenue sharing, the message was clear: the WNBA’s stars are ready to fight for their worth.

Moments of Joy and Recognition

First-time All-Star Kayla Thornton, representing the expansion Golden State Valkyries, beamed with pride during introductions—her V’s up for the Valkyries and for victory. Fever fans roared for Aliyah Boston, the 2023 No. 1 pick, while Nneka Ogwumike flashed all ten fingers, celebrating her tenth All-Star nod.

Angel Reese, a rising force and podcast trailblazer, received a warm welcome despite playing in rival territory. Reese’s “Unapologetically Angel” podcast has ignited a wave of new women’s basketball shows, with stars like Aliyah Boston, Candace Parker, Azzi Fudd, and Sue Bird all launching their own platforms. As Reese put it, “It’s bigger than basketball—it’s about impact and culture.”

A Weekend of Growth and Opportunity

ESPN’s increased presence—nearly 200 staffers on-site—underscored the league’s growing profile. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert hinted at more fan-friendly events to come, perhaps a rookie-sophomore game or expanded All-Star festivities, responding to fan demand for “more W” during the weekend.

Off the court, Collier’s Unrivaled league made headlines by announcing NIL deals with 14 top college players, signaling a new era of opportunity and empowerment for women’s basketball.

The Business of Basketball—and the Face of the Future

With record-breaking attendance, soaring TV ratings, and a new $2.2 billion media rights deal set for 2026, the WNBA is at a crossroads. Expansion is underway, with Golden State joining this season and more teams on the horizon. Yet, collective bargaining looms large, as players demand fairer compensation in step with the league’s rapid growth.

And what of the league’s next face? The Athletic’s anonymous player poll suggests Caitlin Clark is the favorite, but a new generation—led by Collier, Reese, Boston, and others—is ready to share the spotlight.

A Fan’s Love Letter

Perhaps the spirit of the weekend was best captured by fan Betty Meadows, who wrote:
“I am disappointed that Caitlin won’t be playing tonight. However, I will support her and all the other players by watching the game tonight. The 3-point challenge and skills challenge were great last night. Kudos to everyone that participated. Actually made me smile and enjoy the challenges. Thanks to the WNBA for making this All-Star Game and challenges possible and creating such a remarkable experience for me.”

Looking Ahead

As the final buzzer sounded in Indianapolis, the message was clear: The WNBA is not just having a moment—it’s building a movement. With stars shining on the court, voices rising off it, and fans rallying for more, the future of women’s basketball has never looked brighter.