In an unexpected turn of events, Jason Sudeikis, the star of the hit show “Ted Lasso,” chose basketball over a significant speaking engagement. The actor was scheduled to address a 26,000-strong audience at the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) conference in Chicago on Sunday, June 24. Instead, Sudeikis was spotted courtside at the Wintrust Arena, keenly watching Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever take on the Chicago Sky.
Sudeikis, a devoted fan of Caitlin Clark, made headlines as his decision to attend the game quickly went viral on social media. Photos and videos of the actor cheering from the stands captured the attention of fans and media alike. Known for his passion for basketball, Sudeikis has been a regular at Clark’s games since her college days at Iowa.
The SHRM conference, a major event in the field of human resources, had to adjust its schedule following Sudeikis’ last-minute withdrawal. Al Roker, the legendary weatherman, stepped in to replace him. Betty Thompson, a representative of SHRM, expressed disappointment over Sudeikis’ decision, criticizing the actor for pulling out at the eleventh hour.
The game itself was a highly anticipated matchup, marking the third encounter between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky this season. The previous games were nail-biters, with Indiana narrowly winning the first and comfortably securing the second, thanks to Clark’s impressive 23-point performance. This fierce rivalry had built up considerable excitement for the latest game.
The Chicago Sky, featuring standout players Angel Reese and Chennedy Carter, had previously gained notoriety for their aggressive plays against Clark. Their competitive spirit set the stage for a dramatic Game 3.
Joining Sudeikis in the star-studded audience were notable personalities like Chance the Rapper and New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson. Despite the Fever’s loss, Sudeikis seemed to enjoy the electrifying atmosphere and the intense gameplay.
The game did not disappoint. The Sky overcame a daunting 23-point deficit in the second half, ultimately clinching a thrilling 88-87 victory. Caitlin Clark delivered a solid performance, scoring 17 points in 40 minutes, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for her team.
Jason Sudeikis’ choice to prioritize the WNBA game over his speaking engagement highlights his genuine love for the sport and his unwavering support for Caitlin Clark. While it sparked controversy and mixed reactions, it undoubtedly brought significant attention to the excitement and passion that WNBA games can generate.