The WNBA preseason game between the Chicago Sky and the Minnesota Lynx gained significant attention as new rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso made their debuts. Initially, the league’s app failed to broadcast the game, leading to confusion among fans who were expecting to watch. It was later clarified that only Caitlin Clark’s debut with the Indiana Fever was being broadcast. In response, a fan on X stepped in to livestream the game, garnering a total of about 434,000 views, with a peak of 173,381 live viewers.
The unexpected livestream of the game drew praise from Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve, who jokingly suggested that the fan should receive “three bucks” per viewer for their effort. Reeve highlighted the rapid growth and increased interest in the WNBA, emphasizing the need for the league to capitalize on this momentum and continue to grow the sport. She acknowledged the excitement around players like Clark but stressed the importance of showcasing the league as a whole to capitalize on the newfound interest.
Despite the initial confusion, both Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso delivered solid performances in their debuts for the Chicago Sky. Reese recorded 13 points and nine rebounds in 24 minutes, while Cardoso contributed six points and four rebounds in 13 minutes. Sky coach Teresa Weatherspoon expressed satisfaction with the rookies’ performances, highlighting the learning process they are going through and the support they are receiving from the team leaders. Weatherspoon emphasized the importance of keeping the rookies confident as they navigate their first experiences in the league.
Overall, the unexpected livestream of the WNBA preseason game highlighted the growing interest in the league and the potential for further expansion. The excitement surrounding new players like Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, combined with fan-driven initiatives like the livestream, showcases the increasing visibility and popularity of the WNBA. As the league continues to evolve and attract new fans, there is a sense of optimism for the future and the potential for even greater growth and success in the years to come.
