WNBA All-Star weekend winners and losers: Big business, bigger trophies and missed opportunities

The 2026 WNBA All-Star weekend marked a notable milestone for the league’s 30th season, underlined by a record crowd at Chicago’s United Center and a palpable sense of progress. With collective bargaining concerns behind them, players, fans, and partners embraced a celebration that highlighted the WNBA’s evolution both on and off the court.

The All-Star Game itself featured a spirited contest between teams captained by WNBA legends Teresa Weatherspoon and Cynthia Cooper. Team Weatherspoon edged out a narrow 129-122 victory, captivating an unprecedented 19,783 spectators — a testament to the league’s growing appeal in major sports markets.

Complementing the main event was the introduction of the Shooting Stars competition, which replaced the traditional Skills Challenge. This new format paired a WNBA veteran, a current player, and a high school standout, offering a multigenerational showcase of the sport’s legacy and future. The Washington team, led by retired star Elena Delle Donne, current player Shakira Austin, and high school phenom Jezelle “GG” Banks, emerged victorious. This creative approach was widely embraced as a meaningful nod to the league’s past, present, and emerging talent pipeline.

Jonquel Jones, a towering six-foot-six center, earned historic recognition by becoming the first player to secure the WNBA MVP, Commissioner’s Cup MVP, Finals MVP, and All-Star MVP titles. Her near triple-double performance—22 points, 13 rebounds, and 8 assists—underlined her dominance and efficiency in just 22 minutes on the floor. Jones’ achievement resonates deeply for New York basketball, a city eager for bright moments amid recent team struggles.

However, Jones’ weekend was not without controversy. Comments she made during a live stream about past championship outcomes sparked social media debate. She candidly reflected on how certain teams, including her 2019 Connecticut Sun squad and the 2024 Minnesota Lynx, might have been deserving champions. Jones later clarified that her remarks were meant as honest sports banter rather than a pointed critique, emphasizing the complex nature of team chemistry and competitive outcomes.

On the court, Sabrina Ionescu impressed with a strong performance for Team Weatherspoon, scoring 17 points and showcasing her defensive tenacity early with a steal and consecutive deep-range shots. Her contributions helped set the tone for a fast-paced, exciting game that maintained fan engagement.

The weekend also highlighted how the WNBA is increasingly recognized as a major commercial force. Events at the McCormick Convention Center attracted over 30,000 attendees, with ticket sales marking a new chapter in fan engagement strategies. Sponsorships were prominently featured, such as Under Armour’s initiative donating $500 for every three-pointer made by Marina Mabrey during the Friday night competition, blending athletic achievement with brand partnerships.

Yet, challenges remain in fully capitalizing on fan experiences. Attendance during the Shooting Stars competition was lower than anticipated, with many seats unoccupied and the event lasting only an hour. Observers note that expanding Friday night offerings and integrating more pop culture elements could better capture audience interest and extend the celebration.

Hosting the All-Star festivities in a large city like Chicago brought both benefits and logistical hurdles. The South Loop location provided a vibrant urban backdrop but also meant competing against numerous other attractions. Additionally, concurrent high-profile youth tournaments at nearby venues, though aligning with the WNBA’s growth ethos, sometimes diluted the professional league’s visibility.

Despite these complexities, the enthusiasm for former Chicago Sky stars and local heroes remained strong. The crowd’s warm reception of players such as Mabrey, Angel Reese, and Kahleah Copper demonstrated the potential for thriving fan bases in major cities.

Overall, the 2026 WNBA All-Star weekend underscored the league’s steady ascent in professional sports. Record-breaking attendance, innovative event formats, and deepening corporate support signal a promising trajectory as the WNBA celebrates three decades and looks forward to continued expansion and influence.