Story perspectives

Obama surprises WNBA All-Stars, loses H.O.R.S.E. game in Chicago

7/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Barack Obama, U.S. President (2009-2017), surprised the WNBA All-Stars during their July 24, 2026 practice in Chicago.
He inaugurated the 60,000-sq-ft court with a H.O.R.S.E. game, which he lost.
He spent minutes shaking hands and photographing with Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson and Jonquel Jones.
He announced he will miss the All-Star Game due to a commitment with his wife Michelle and urged ninth-grade girls at Changemaker Day to seek mentors.

History

Historical Context

In 1996 the NBA approved the WNBA, launching an eight-team league that began play in 1997. Decades of growth—expanding to 15 teams by the 2026 season and securing a $200 million annual media-rights payout—have raised the league’s profile. Obama’s surprise appearance at the 2026 All-Star practice underscores that rising national visibility.

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Story summary

Barack Obama, U.S. President (2009-2017), surprised the WNBA All-Stars during their July 24, 2026 practice in Chicago.
He inaugurated the 60,000-sq-ft court with a H.O.R.S.E. game, which he lost.
He spent minutes shaking hands and photographing with Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, A’ja Wilson and Jonquel Jones.
He announced he will miss the All-Star Game due to a commitment with his wife Michelle and urged ninth-grade girls at Changemaker Day to seek mentors.

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