The WNBA season is almost at the halfway point.
WNBA referees Fatou Cissoko-Stephens (15) Amy Bonner (31) listen to Tiara Cruse during a time out in a WNBA basketball gameAP
The WNBA has never enjoyed the level of attention it has now, with ratings through the roof,arena attendance breaking records, and merchandise sales soaring by an astonishing 236%. Rookie sensations Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are leading jersey sales, thanks to their outstanding performances, popularity, and positive media presence. They are complemented by the stellar play of veterans like A’ja Wilson, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart.
However, the latest viral moment isn’t about Caitlin Clark’s first triple-double by a rookie in WNBA history or Angel Reese’s record breaking13 consecutive double-doubles. Instead, it’s a video of a fan knitting what appears to be a blanket or scarf during a foul review in a game between the Washington Mystics (5-17) and the Minnesota Lynx (15-6).
As the spotlight on the league intensifies, the referees also face increased scrutiny and pressure. While they have performed admirably for the most part, there is hope that they won’t emulate their NBA counterparts, who sometimes call every contact a foul or seek to draw more attention than the players themselves-Scott Foster, we’re looking at you.
With the season nearing its halfway mark, the month-long break for the Olympics, starting on July 18th, looms ahead. The excitement and intrigue will only grow when the league resumes, with all eyes on Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. A potential playoff showdown between their teams, the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, would undoubtedly be a highlight.
This WNBA season has set new standards, and the anticipation for what comes next is palpable. Fans eagerly await the return from the Olympic break, hoping for more memorable moments and thrilling basketball action.
Caitlin Clark speaks out about former teammate Kate Martin’s latest WNBA post
Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin still have their friendship going strong
Caitlin Clark will face Kate Martin in SeptemberLAPRESSE
Despite now being on opposite coasts, former Iowa Hawkeyes Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin have remained best friends since entering the WNBA. Clark currently plays for the Indiana Fever, while Martin has joined the Las Vegas Aces.
Their friendship, which began during their time as roommates at Iowa, continues to flourish, evidenced by their frequent interactions on social media. On Monday, Martin posted photos of herself with the Aces on Instagram, captioning the post with, “I love my job.” The post quickly gained attention, particularly due to Clark’s heartfelt responses.
Clark, who is known for her dynamic play on the court, showed her softer side with an emotional reply: “love you.” This message resonated with fans, showcasing the deep bond between the two athletes. Clark didn’t stop there; she also commented on a mention of Martin’s mother, Jill, in one of the photos. “Just here for jilly bean,” she wrote, using a personal nickname for Martin’s mom, further highlighting the close-knit nature of their relationship.
The Hawkeyes bond is growing in the WNBA
Caitlin Clark’s locker room celebration after historic WNBA triple-double
The ongoing camaraderie between Clark and Martin is a heartwarming story for fans, illustrating that despite professional commitments and geographical distance, their friendship remains strong.
Fans eagerly anticipate the next time the former Hawkeyes will face each other on the court, which is set for September 11. Until then, they continue to support and celebrate each other’s successes from afar.