​The WNBA is set to stage a portion of its forthcoming All-Star festivities at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago, the city’s South Side, marking the first time a major professional league will host marquee events at the center since its opening in June 2026. In a new press release, the league notes that several All-Star activities will convene players, fans, and community members for an experience that celebrates basketball while honoring culture, community, and impact.
“This is a true honor for AT&T WNBA All-Star events to be hosted at the Obama Presidential Center,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “It reflects our commitment to fostering connection through basketball and engaging communities in meaningful ways. We’re excited to bring together the WNBA family and the greater Chicago community to create memorable moments at this historic new venue.”
The Obama Presidential Center sits in Chicago’s Jackson Park neighborhood on the South Side. Earlier reporting described the Center as featuring an interactive museum, a library, public outdoor spaces, and a large athletic facility that includes an NBA regulation-size court with additional practice courts and flexible seating. The Center opened over Juneteenth weekend and was established to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world.
Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, commented on the upcoming collaboration with the WNBA, saying they were thrilled about the partnership. “At the Center, we believe sports have the power to bring people together and create meaningful opportunities to cultivate the next generation of leaders,” she said.
The WNBA’s marquee events will begin on Friday, July 24, with AT&T WNBA All-Star Media Day and Practice. This will mark the first time an All-Star practice has taken place at a venue of this kind. The third annual WNBA Changemaker Day will also be held at the Obama Presidential Center, in collaboration with the Chicago Sky, Chicago Public Schools, and the Girls Opportunity Alliance. In addition, the All-Star celebration will include Jr. WNBA Day, a programming slate designed to inspire girls through basketball, leadership, and learning.
There was some buzz around the WNBA All-Star starters list in prior reporting, which included Paige Bueckers, Olivia Miles, Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Jessica Shepard, Aaliyah Boston, Gabby Williams, and Natasha Howard. Many speculated that Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream would have been named a starter, highlighting ongoing discussions around lineup selections.