The WNBA preseason game featuring Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso for the Chicago Sky garnered significant attention as fans turned to a social media livestream after the league's app failed to broadcast the match. The game, which ended in a 92-81 victory for the Minnesota Lynx, saw the debut of the two rookies in a highly anticipated matchup.
Confusion arose among fans when the WNBA app incorrectly listed the game as available for viewing, leading to disappointment until it was clarified that only Caitlin Clark's debut with the Indiana Fever was being broadcast. In response, a fan on social media platform X stepped in to livestream the game, offering viewers an alternative way to watch the event.
The impromptu livestream attracted a significant audience, with viewership numbers reaching approximately 434,000 total views. At its peak, the stream had 173,381 live viewers, showcasing the growing interest in WNBA games and players.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve commended the fan who hosted the livestream, suggesting that viewers should consider supporting them for their efforts. Reeve emphasized the rapid growth and evolving landscape of the WNBA, highlighting the need to adapt to changing dynamics in the sports industry.
Reeve acknowledged the importance of broadcasting games featuring star players like Caitlin Clark while also recognizing the broader excitement surrounding the league. She emphasized the need to capitalize on this momentum to further promote the WNBA as a significant sporting movement.
Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso showcased their talents during the game, with Reese contributing 13 points and nine rebounds, and Cardoso adding six points and four rebounds to the Sky's performance. Sky coach Teresa Weatherspoon expressed satisfaction with the rookies' debuts, emphasizing the learning process and the support provided by team leaders to help the newcomers adjust to the professional level.
The game served as a platform to highlight the promising future of the WNBA, with new talents like Reese and Cardoso making their mark in the league. As interest in women's basketball continues to grow, the WNBA remains at the forefront of promoting diversity and excellence in sports.
