PHOENIX, Arizona — While the surge of fandom for women’s basketball unfolds across the globe, this week, the Valley is home to one of its most anticipated annual events. Fans traveling to Phoenix will get an opportunity to witness some of the most dynamic players from around the league. This Saturday, Team USA, composed of some of the league’s favorites like Diana Taurasi and Breanna Stewart will face Team WNBA, which features the likes of rookies Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark.
On Tuesday, city leaders gathered as the franchise unveiled two ceremonial street signs commemorating the Valley, “All-Star Avenue” and “Team USA Way.” And if you’ve been to Downtown Phoenix lately, you’ve probably already noticed the building-scaled posters of A’ja Wilson and Sabrina Ionescu. Before the teams suit up, the WNBA, along with other organizations, will be hosting events around the city for fans, players and coaches to enjoy.
Thursday, July 18
On Thursday, parents are invited to bring their kids ages 7-17 to a basketball clinic hosted by Phoenix Mercury alum and former WNBA coach, Bridget Pettis. The co-ed clinic will be taught alongside a host of other WNBA legends. Did you know Bridget Pettis is the first person to score a bucket in Phoenix Mercury history?
Her-Story All Star WNBA Alumni Basketball Clinic
- Thursday, July 18
- Registration starts at 7 a.m. | Clinic ends at 10 a.m.
- Ability 360
Play Like a Girl Basketball Camp
- Thursday, July 18
- 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Academies at South Mountain campus
- Though the event is free, participants must register by clicking here.
WNBA Changemaker Day
- Thursday, July 18
- 2 p.m. until 3:30 p.m.
- Parsons Leadership Center for Girls and Women at Camp South Mountain
Diana Taurasi to be honored at Mercury practice facility unveiling
Phoenix Mercury will unveil their new $100 million practice facility, with a special event dedicating the courts to Diana Taurasi. Phoenix has been lucky to watch the G.O.A.T. play for 20 seasons. Even the late Kobe Bryant co-signed her as the ‘White Mamba’ back in the day. When she scored her 10,000th career point in August of 2023, fans discussed her future legacy and eventual retirement. Time will tell if 2023-24 will make DT’s last season, but until then, she’s getting her due flowers.
- Thursday, July 18
- 5 p.m.
- Phoenix's Warehouse District
Film Screening: A League of Our Own hosted by former Olympian and WNBA player, Fran Harris
- Thursday, July 18
- 6 p.m.
- Cambria Hotel
- $10
- Click here for more information.
Friday, July 19
On Day 1 of the free fan event, WNBA personalities from across the league will make appearances such as Sue Bird, Brionna Jones, Aliyah Boston, and Kahleah Copper.
WNBA Live 2024 presented by U.S. Bank
- Friday, July 19
- 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
- Phoenix Convention Center
Day 1 of WNBA Live kicks off on Friday! Per their website, "attendees can expect exclusive merch, meet and greets with stars within the WNBA, shoot-around games and a variety of entertaining and engaging activations presented by the WNBA and partners.”
Registration is required for entry. Click here to download the app for Apple products or here to download the app for Android.
Kia Skills Challenge and 3-Point Challenge
- Friday, July 19
- 6 p.m.
- Footprint Center
- Tickets: Click here for tickets.
Brunchish hosts All-Star Tip-Off Party
The popular brunch spot is bringing beats and basketball together in Phoenix. Guests can pop by and listen to music as they celebrate the All-Star weekend. Featured sounds curated by DJ Pootie Cat, DJ Bandcamp, DJ Rikkie Tee and more.
- Friday, July 19
- Doors open at 7 p.m.
- Stadium Sports Bar & Lounge
Saturday, July 20
On Day 2 of the free event, fans can enjoy player appearances from Shakira Austin, Tiona Deniece and more!
WNBA Live 2024 presented by U.S. Bank
- Saturday, July 20
- 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.
- Phoenix Convention Center
From first-round draft picks and rookies, to all-time defensive leaders, Saturday’s game is sure to be a moment to remember. While ticket packages are already sold out, individual tickets are still available on Ticketmaster and for resale.
2024 WNBA All-Star Game
- Saturday, July 20
- Footprint Center, Phoenix
- Where to watch at home: ABC
- Click here for tickets
On Tuesday, the WNBA announced Pitbull aka “Mr. Worldwide” as the big game’s half-time performer.
Bliss Saturdays hosted by Angel Reese
- Saturday, July 20
- Time TBD
- Pretty Please Lounge
After it’s all said and done, Phoenix Mercury fans can continue to cheer for their favorite players at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where first-time Olympian and ‘Norf Philly’s’ finest, Kahleah Copper will join Mercury teammates Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner in the City of Light. Follow along with 12News for the latest Olympics stories and tune into 12News.com, subscribe to our YouTube channel and download the 12News+ app.
This weekend, it's important to protect yourself against Phoenix’s blazing temperatures. Hydration and safety is key. If you find yourself outside without access to water, get familiar with cooling centers near you. Looking for more tips on spots to dine, or visit while you’re here? Visit Phoenix has you covered. See you around the Valley.
This is a developing list and will be updated as more events are made public.