WNBA Rookies Return Refreshed For Playoff Push

Caitlin Clark, left, of Team WNBA, dribbles against Sabrina Ionescu (6), of Team USA, during the second half of a WNBA All-Star basketball game Saturday, July 20, 2024, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Ross D. F

Caitlin Clark, a standout player for the Indiana Fever, made the most of her time during the U.S. Olympic team snub by taking a break to travel to Mexico, attend a friend's wedding in Iowa, and visit the New York Yankees' clubhouse. Upon her return to practice, Clark expressed feeling refreshed and energized for the remainder of the WNBA season.

Clark's experience was shared by other rookies in the league who found the nearly month-long Olympic break to be a much-needed respite before the final push towards the playoffs. The break allowed players to reset and recharge after a demanding season that began with college practices last fall and continued through the WNBA draft and training camp.

Chicago Sky's coach Teresa Weatherspoon noted that rookies Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, both NCAA champions, returned re-energized after a whirlwind year of high expectations and intense competition. The rookies embarked on a 40-game regular season, which was further challenged by a modified schedule due to the extended break.

Rookies like Reese and Cardoso found the break refreshing after a demanding season.

Clark took a break to travel and visit friends during the Olympic team snub.

Players engaged in various activities like shopping in Paris and team-building exercises.

During the break, players engaged in various activities to relax and bond with teammates. Reese went shopping in Paris, while Clark and her teammates participated in team-building exercises like a home run derby, a ropes course in Indianapolis, and a visit to the Indiana State Fair.

As the league resumes play, teams like the Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky are gearing up for the playoff race. With a limited number of games left in the season, players are eager to get back on the court and compete. The Fever will face tough opponents like Phoenix and Seattle, who boast players returning from the Olympics with gold medals, while the Sky will kick off their post-break schedule against Phoenix before embarking on a challenging road trip.

As the focus shifts to the playoff push, players like Clark are eager to showcase their skills and make a final push towards securing a spot in the postseason. The break provided much-needed rest and rejuvenation for the rookies, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the WNBA season.