The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game was shaping up to be a celebration of rising talent, with Caitlin Clark leading the charge. But just days before tip-off, a groin injury forced the rookie phenom to the sidelines.
Her absence left a noticeable gap—not only in the East’s roster, but in the game’s hype machine. The league, however, didn’t take long to respond, calling in reinforcements to keep the spotlight burning bright in Indianapolis.
Now, with unexpected names stepping into the All-Star spotlight, the stage is set for a reshuffled narrative. The replacements may not be household names yet, but the opportunity is theirs to seize.
Caitlin Clark’s replacement named ahead of All-Star Weekend
The WNBA All-Star weekend took an unexpected turn when Indiana Fever rookie and Team East captain Caitlin Clark was ruled out due to a lingering groin injury. Her absence left fans disappointed and organizers scrambling to fill a high-profile void just days before the main event in Indianapolis.
Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever speaks to the media before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on July 9, 2025. (Source: Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
In her place, Washington Mystics guard Brittney Sykes has earned her first All-Star selection after nine seasons in the league. Known for her defensive prowess and athleticism, she brings a different skill set to the roster, offering energy and experience rather than star hype.
While she doesn’t have Clark’s spotlight, her journey has been one of steady growth and consistency—qualities that resonate in an All-Star setting. Also joining the squad is Brionna Jones of the Atlanta Dream, replacing Satou Sabally, who is sidelined with a back injury.
A two-time All-Star and former Most Improved Player, Jones adds post dominance and veteran leadership to the mix. Together, these replacements may not match the headline power of Clark and Sabally, but they arrive with something to prove—and the All-Star stage is the perfect place to do it.
