Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have transitioned from NCAA stars to WNBA luminaries, each leaving an indelible mark on women’s basketball.
Their ascent to fame began with the 2023 NCAA championship, where Reese’s LSU secured victory over Clark’s Iowa. The game captivated a record audience, averaging 9.9 million viewers and peaking at 12.6 million.
The Essence of Their Competitive Spirit
The intensity of their competition was palpable in the championship game and has only grown since. In the 2024 Elite Eight, Clark’s Hawkeyes exacted revenge on Reese’s Tigers, adding another chapter to their compelling rivalry. Now in their rookie WNBA seasons, the media frenzy surrounding them shows no signs of abating.
The public perceives them as rivals, but a deeper look reveals a relationship founded on mutual respect and shared ambition.
Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese: Dissecting the Rivalry
Despite persistent rumors, Clark and Reese have consistently debunked any notion of personal animosity. Their history together goes back to their AAU days, well before their college careers began.
“I’ve known Caitlin since our AAU days,” Reese shared during LSU’s media day in October 2023. “It’s always been about fun and competition. I hope we can be teammates someday. She’s an amazing player, shooter, and person.”
Reese highlighted the positive impact they’ve had on women’s basketball. “When you understand someone’s true intentions and recognize our collective impact on the sport, the negative chatter fades away.”
During the 2023 championship, Reese’s “You can’t see me” gesture and ring-pointing drew criticism, but Clark, who had made the same gesture earlier in the tournament, defended Reese’s actions.
“Angel shouldn’t be criticized,” Clark told ESPN. “We both competed, and everyone expected some trash talk. It’s not just between us; it’s part of the game and adds to the excitement.”
Dispelling the Myths
Contrary to the narrative of hostility, Reese and Clark remain supportive of each other off the court. Ahead of their 2024 Elite Eight clash, Reese reiterated that there was no personal feud.
“People think it’s personal, but it’s not,” Reese told ESPN’s Andrea Adelson. “It’s just about competition. On the court, we’re fierce competitors, but off the court, we can be friends.”
Reese embraces her role in challenging perceptions to grow the sport. Clark echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their shared competitive nature.
“There’s a strong competitive fire in both of us,” Clark told ESPN. “We both strive to win, and that’s the core of our similarity. We grew up loving this game and will do whatever it takes to help our teams succeed.”
WNBA: The Rivalry Expands
Drafted in 2024, Clark and Reese have been instrumental in driving the WNBA’s rising popularity.
While Clark often receives more attention, Reese underscores her significant role in the league’s success.
“I know I’ll be remembered,” Reese said. “The growth of women’s basketball isn’t just about one person; it’s about my contributions too. I want people to see that.”
Media narratives frequently pit them against each other, but both athletes stress the need for fair coverage. A recent incident involving Clark and Reese’s teammate Chennedy Carter highlighted media biases.
“The incident with me was worse,” Reese noted, calling for balanced and fair coverage of women’s basketball.
In the end, Reese and Clark’s dynamic, marked by both competition and respect, continues to captivate audiences and drive the conversation around the future of women’s basketball.
