Ex-WNBA player uncovers dark side of Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese rivalry (Imagn)

Whether it’s college or the WNBA, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are rivals who will always be debated about. While most have managed to keep things about basketball, some have crossed a line when picking a side.

On occasion, Reese’s confidence has been mistaken for arrogance. This has led to narratives of her being a villain. Meanwhile, Clark has been viewed as a prodigy who is going to completely change women’s basketball.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are both great talents and have played a significant role in the growth of the sport. That said, one of them has received unwarranted hate from fans.

Earlier this week, former WNBA player Val Whiting shared emails and messages Reese’s mother received filled with negative remarks. Some have referred to the Chicago Sky rookie as a thug, and others include several racial comments.

In just their first year as pros, this rivalry has already taken a nasty turn. Despite all this, the two are still doing everything they can to uplift the sport with their play.

Clark and Reese were both named to the All-Star team in their first WNBA season. The Indiana Fever guard continues to put up a historical stat line, and the Sky forward has impressed many with her double-double streak.

Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark aren’t giving into rivalry narrative

Fans might be taking their rivalry to extreme lengths, but Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark have not. In fact, they are excited for what the future holds for them together.

During a recent appearance on “NBA Today,” Reese was asked about being teammates with Clark for the first time. She is looking forward to the opportunity and knows this will just be one of many occasions. The Chicago Sky rookie also touched on her aspirations for the two of them to play together in the 2028 Olympics.

“We’re going to be playing together for awhile,” Reese said. “I know we’ll be All-Stars again. Hopefully 2028 we’ll be Olympians together too.”

The rivalry between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark really took off in the NCAA tournament two years ago. Their matchup was a major talking point after Reese mocked Clark’s “you can’t see me” celebration.

Even back then, Clark had nothing but respect for Reese. While talking about the incident on ESPN, she admitted she’s a fan of hers and doesn’t feel she should be attacked for her actions.

Along with fans adding fuel to their rivalry, the two are in the running for a major award this season. Following strong performances from Clark and Reese, Rookie of the Year debates have become a growing topic in the WNBA.

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Edited by Kevin McCormick