The WNBA is bringing both star power and a few experiments to this year’s WNBA All-Star Weekend. Ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated All-Star Game in Indianapolis, the league announced a set of bold new rule changes exclusive to the event.
Among them are a 4-point shot, a faster shot clock, and live substitutions while the ball is in play. While the moves are only temporary, they signal a clear push by the WNBA to supercharge the pace, raise excitement, and keep the spotlight fixed on its biggest night.
What New Rules Will Change the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game?
In a press release issued ahead of the 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game, the league confirmed it will test four significant rule changes during Saturday’s showcase at Gainbridge Fieldhouse (8:30 p.m. ET on ABC, Disney+, and ESPN+). The changes are intended solely for the All-Star Game, with an emphasis on speeding up play and energizing the crowd.
AT&T 4-Point Shot Highlights Special Rules for 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game pic.twitter.com/Pizzxncgnn
— WNBA Communications (@WNBAComms) July 16, 2025
Here’s what fans can expect:
AT&T 4-Point Shot
Four special circles will be added to the court, two on each side, 28 feet from the rim, about six feet beyond the standard three-point line. Shots made from within these four-foot zones will count as four points.
For every 4-point shot made, AT&T will make a donation to foundations supported by the WNBA and selected by players.
20-Second Shot Clock
The usual 24-second clock is being trimmed to 20 seconds. Offensive rebounds will still reset to 14 seconds, keeping the game moving quickly and limiting stagnant possessions.
Live-Play Substitutions
Teams will be allowed to substitute players while the ball is in play, similar to ice hockey, but only under specific conditions:
- Only the offensive team may sub during a live possession.
- Only one substitution is allowed per possession.
- The switch must happen in the backcourt, between the 28-foot mark and half-court.
- The player entering cannot touch the ball in the backcourt.
Violating any of these guidelines will result in a turnover and loss of possession.
Automatic Points for Free Throws
Free throws, for the most part, are out. Instead of taking actual attempts, players will be automatically awarded points in free-throw situations. The official box score will still reflect the correct number of attempts and makes.
The only time actual free throws will be taken is during the final two minutes of the fourth quarter and in any overtime periods.
How Will Caitlin Clark’s Injury Impact All-Star Weekend?
The WNBA is making a clear effort to elevate All-Star Weekend to new heights, and it’s building on serious momentum. Last year’s All-Star Game on ABC drew a record 3.44 million viewers, making it the most-watched in league history. That figure marked a 305% increase from 2023.
This year’s event, featuring megastars like Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Caitlin Clark, is expected to draw even more eyes. However, Clark’s status remains uncertain following an apparent groin injury sustained during the Indiana Fever’s 85-77 win over the Connecticut Sun on July 15.
Clark was seen grimacing and grabbing her right leg in the game’s final minute before exiting emotionally to the bench. While the WNBA had previously confirmed her long-awaited participation in the All-Star 3-Point Contest, her availability for both events is now in serious doubt. Still, hopes remain high.
Despite the frustration of not being able to play and the Liberty having the 98-77 blowout win over her Fever, Caitlin Clark still greets and signs autographs with her fans afterwards. #WNBA
🎥 @TWDTV1 pic.twitter.com/rinUVzy5pX
— Andrew Jerell Jones, Luke 1:37 (BlueSky too now) (@sluggahjells) July 17, 2025
Clark was named the All-Star Game captain alongside veteran Napheesa Collier, with the game taking place on her home floor in Indianapolis. Whether or not she suits up, the WNBA is banking on a strong showing and a fresh, fast-paced format to keep fans locked in.