In the lead-up to the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, a practice session involving Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Kelsey Plum drew heavy scrutiny after a viral video showcased an uncharacteristic series of missed shots, sparking fears of the quality on show.
The footage, filmed during Team Collier’s practice at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, quickly circulated on social media, prompting an avalanche of criticism and mockery from fans online.
In the clip, Reese is seen missing two consecutive shots before passing the ball to Plum and then Bueckers, who also failed to convert their attempts. The lackluster performance was quickly seized upon by fans, who speculated that the off-target efforts were the result of post-party fatigue.
One user wrote via X.com, formerly known as Twitter, “Hung over from all those parties last night?”
A second said, “After partying all night they are probably seeing about 4 different rims.”
And a third commented, “WTF…are they hungover?”
Some fans even took the criticism further, questioning whether the trio could compete with much less experienced teams.
Another user claimed, “My high school team wouldn’t have missed 9 in a row.@
And someone else questioned, “They know it’s supposed to go in the basket, right?”
While the missed shots were likely no more than a rough stretch during a casual shootaround, the timing was unfortunate with the WNBA All-Star Game set to take place on Saturday, July 19.
The All-Star weekend festivities often come with off-court engagements, and even the appearance of fatigue during a public session can give fans ammunition for online trolling.
With Team Collier set to face Team Clark in a marquee matchup, players will need to quickly re-establish rhythm and composure under the spotlight if they hope to making avoid the league look farcical on one of its biggest nights.
Despite the chatter, Angel Reese continues to receive recognition for her efforts on and off the court. During a red carpet moment, the Indiana Fever‘s veteran, Sydney Colson, took a moment to commend her for her growth and resilience.
“We’re very happy for you,” Colson said to Reese. “To see the road from your year one to your year two, you can tell you put in work.
“And with all of the negativity that you receive, I hope you know that a lot of us, we admire you – how you carry yourself and how you show up all the time. So keep being that.”
Caitlin Clark officially OUT of 2025 WNBA All-Star Game: Who replaces her?
The All-Star Game, originally set to feature Caitlin Clark as a starter and captain, will move forward without the Indiana Fever standout.
Clark withdrew after sustaining a right groin injury earlier in the week. Though disappointed, she expressed support for the event and will still attend.
The Washington Mystics’ guard, Brittney Sykes was selected as the replacement by the WNBA commissioner. Lexie Hull was also named to fill her spot in the 3-point contest.
“I am incredibly sad and disappointed to say I can’t participate in the 3-Point Contest,” Clark said in a statement. “Or the All-Star Game. I have to rest my body.
“I will still be at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for all the action and I’m looking forward to helping Sandy [Brondello] coach our team to a win.”
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