When Angel Reese talks, people listen. And on her podcast, “Unapologetically Angel,” the Chicago Sky forward didn’t shy away from discussing one of the biggest names in women’s basketball: Caitlin Clark. Reese gave her two cents on why Clark has taken the WNBA by storm, but Shaquille O’Neal wasn’t about to let her off easy with a surface-level answer.
The conversation kicked off with a casual discussion of Clark’s impact as a rookie with the Indiana Fever. But when Shaq got involved, things quickly escalated into a full-blown breakdown of Clark’s game. Reese’s attempt to simplify Clark’s greatness? “She can shoot 3s from the logo.” Sure, that’s true, but Shaq wasn’t going to let such a colossal talent be reduced to a single skill.
Shaq’s Epic Take: Caitlin Clark Is More Than a Human Logo Shot
Shaq, always the basketball historian, dropped some serious knowledge. “We’ve never seen this before,” he declared. “That’s why I love Steph Curry. No one has done what he’s done on a consistent basis.” According to Shaq, Clark isn’t just out there launching long-range bombs for fun; she’s changing the game.
It’s the kind of analysis you expect from a guy who dominated his era, but even Shaq can recognize when someone is revolutionizing the sport. Clark’s ability to hit shots from ridiculous distances is Steph-esque — and that’s high praise coming from Shaq.
Rookie Year? More Like Highlight Reel Year
Caitlin Clark didn’t just step into the WNBA — she kicked the door down and drained a three from the hallway. After being drafted first overall, she wasted no time making a name for herself. Sure, she had some rookie bumps (who doesn’t?), but she adapted faster than a defense scrambling to cover her on the perimeter.
Her scoring ability, range, and basketball IQ are what made her a college star, but in the pros, Clark has been more than just a shooter — she’s a bona fide problem for opponents. You know you’re doing something right when Shaq is out here comparing you to the greatest shooter the NBA has ever seen.
Angel Reese’s Dunking Debate: “Respect Still Won’t Come Easy”
Reese, never afraid to dive into hot topics, raised an interesting point about dunking in women’s basketball. She argued that even if more dunks became commonplace, the respect from male fans wouldn’t follow. “We could be out here windmilling, and they’d still find a way to criticize,” she joked.
Shaq, as always, was ready to dig deeper. He shifted the focus back to Clark, reminding Reese and listeners that what makes a player legendary isn’t just their ability to throw down a dunk — it’s about doing something nobody has ever seen before.
And Clark is doing just that.
Shaq’s Mentor Mode: Caitlin Clark Is Family
In a wholesome turn of events, Shaq revealed that his connection with Clark goes beyond being a fan. “Me and [Clark] are really good friends,” he said. “She reminds me of my daughter, so I mentor her sometimes.” Imagine getting life advice from Shaq? Yeah, sign us up.
Shaq even shared how he gave Clark a pep talk during a rough patch, offering sage advice about staying composed and not letting distractions get in the way of her game. “Take your punishment like a soldier,” Shaq told her. It’s the kind of tough-love wisdom you expect from someone who’s been in the trenches of pro basketball and come out on top.
What’s Next for Clark? Keep Breaking the Game
If Caitlin Clark’s rookie season is anything to go by, the rest of the WNBA is in for a long decade. She’s not just good — she’s game-changing. Whether it’s hitting logo shots that have her channeling her inner Steph Curry or absorbing lessons from Shaq, Clark is showing the world what women’s basketball is all about.
And as for Angel Reese? She might have simplified Clark’s merits at first, but even she knows that Caitlin Clark is out here changing the rules. One thing’s for sure: the future of women’s basketball is in good (and three-point shooting) hands.
