The highly anticipated showdown between Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky is set to take place at the United Center this summer, marking the first time in history that WNBA games will be held at this iconic arena. The Sky made the exciting announcement in a press release, revealing that the Indiana Fever will be the visiting team for these historic matchups. The games, originally scheduled for June 7 and July 26, will now take place on June 7 and July 27, with the latter featuring a 2 p.m. CT tipoff.
Unprecedented Growth in the WNBA
The decision to move the games to the United Center was not only driven by the star power of Clark and Reese but also by the WNBA’s explosive growth and the league’s recent free agency frenzy. The Sky have bolstered their roster with key signings, including Courtney Vandersloot and Ariel Atkins, adding veteran talent to an already formidable lineup.
Vandersloot, a two-time All-Star and 2019 WNBA champion, joins the Sky after two successful seasons with the Liberty, while Atkins brings her star power from the Mystics. The Indiana Fever, on the other hand, have strengthened their roster with elite players like DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Kelsey Mitchell, setting the stage for an epic clash at the United Center.
Record-Breaking Crowds Expected
With a seating capacity of over 20,000, the United Center offers the Sky a unique opportunity to play in front of what could be a record-breaking home crowd. The franchise’s current attendance record stands at 16,444 fans, set at Allstate Arena in 2016. In comparison, Wintrust Arena, the Sky’s usual home venue, accommodates 10,000 seats, underscoring the significance of this move to the larger United Center.
United Center Excitement
Joe Myhra, the United Center’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever, heralding the arrival of two championship-caliber teams to the iconic arena. Myhra highlighted the significance of showcasing elite women athletes and celebrating the impact of women’s sports in a venue rich with basketball history.
A Historic Moment for Women’s Sports
The upcoming games between the Sky and the Fever mark a significant milestone in the history of women’s sports, as two WNBA powerhouses collide on the grand stage of the United Center. Fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere, intense competition, and unforgettable moments as these elite athletes showcase their skills and passion for the game. Get ready to witness history in the making as the WNBA takes center stage at the United Center this summer.
