Angel Reese Faces Backlash Amid Ongoing Drama with Caitlin Clark

In the ever-dynamic world of women’s basketball, two names have captured the attention of fans, critics, and the media alike: Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. These two standout athletes have repeatedly found themselves at the center of heated debates, controversies, and comparisons.

While both possess undeniable talent, the ongoing tension between them has created a narrative that extends far beyond the basketball court.

Angel Reese, known for her defensive prowess and fiery personality, has become a lightning rod for criticism. Her antics, both on and off the court, often draw as much attention as her performance. From mocking Caitlin Clark during a national championship game to flaunting her social media presence, Reese has proven adept at staying in the spotlight—though not always for the right reasons.

Most recently, Reese faced backlash for comments and actions that some perceived as inflammatory. Critics argue that her statements about racism and privilege come across as divisive rather than constructive, creating unnecessary friction in a sport striving for unity and growth.

Adding to the controversy is Reese’s off-court behavior, including provocative social media posts and public appearances that some fans find at odds with her complaints about being oversexualized. While Reese defends her choices as expressions of self-confidence, detractors argue that these actions undermine her credibility.

In stark contrast, Caitlin Clark has built her reputation on the court, dazzling fans with her record-breaking performances and charismatic leadership. A generational talent, Clark’s ability to shoot from impossible distances and dominate games single-handedly has turned her into a household name.

Clark’s achievements are staggering: leading the NCAA in scoring, carrying the Iowa Hawkeyes to the finals, and even setting viewership records for women’s basketball. Off the court, she’s used her platform to highlight the contributions of black athletes like Maya Moore, acknowledging the foundational role they played in building the WNBA.

However, her decision to speak candidly about privilege and race in a Time Magazine interview drew mixed reactions. While many applauded her bravery and self-awareness, others accused her of virtue signaling. Despite the backlash, Clark has remained steadfast, earning respect from sports legends like LeBron James and Serena Williams.

The rivalry between Reese and Clark has become emblematic of larger issues within women’s basketball. While Clark’s focus remains on elevating the game through her performance, Reese often garners attention for her dramatic statements and actions. Fans and analysts alike have pointed out the stark differences in their approaches, with Clark’s humility often juxtaposed against Reese’s combative demeanor.

Reese has openly embraced the role of the villain, claiming that the attention she generates—positive or negative—is ultimately good for the sport. “I’ll take the bad guy role,” she said in a recent interview. “If it means people are talking about women’s basketball, then it’s worth it.”

Clark, on the other hand, has quietly risen above the noise. Her inclusion in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list serves as a testament to her impact both on and off the court. While Reese continues to take jabs, Clark remains focused on her game, allowing her statistics and accolades to speak for themselves.

The Reese-Clark saga has undeniably brought unprecedented attention to women’s basketball, sparking debates about race, privilege, and the evolving culture of the sport. While some view their rivalry as a distraction, others see it as a sign of growth—a sport finally capturing the passion and drama that make headlines in men’s leagues.

Still, the question remains: can the attention generated by this feud translate into lasting progress for women’s basketball? Or will it simply serve as a fleeting moment of spectacle?

As the 2024 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Reese and Clark, two athletes whose paths may diverge in style but whose impact on the game is undeniable. Whether as adversaries or as symbols of the sport’s evolution, their stories are shaping the future of women’s basketball in ways no one could have predicted.

Former WNBA champion Syndey Colson has jumped to Angel Reese’s defense and criticized former NBA champion and All-Star Jeff Teague after he and Charleston White had sexualized the 22-year-old while speaking about her ‘dunking in lingerie’.

In an episode of the “Club 520” podcast of former NBA guard Teague, guest and influencer White, the latter made the lewd comments while going to suggest that Reese should start an OnlyFans account.

Colson, like many fans, had jumped to call out White for sexualizing Reese as well as Teague for posting the podcast. She wrote on X: “Having an ignorant ass sexist on and then actually dropping the episode and then wanting to collab with the W is craaazy work lmao”.

Their remarks had stemmed from Shaquille O’Neal’s bizarre comments when speaking to Reese on her “Unapologetically Angel” show. O’Neal was accused of making ‘creepy’ comment to Reese while seemingly making the WNBA rookie feel uncomfortable as he discussed her dunking in short-short’s.

O’Neal said: “Imagine you in the same little shorts you had on at the Wild ‘N Out show dunking. You know how many T-shirts you’re gonna sell? You’re tripping. What? Them same little shorts you had on at Wild ‘N Out… You’re not beautiful or good-looking – you are gorgeous. There’s a lot of gorgeous women in the WNBA.”

But White had taken it much further on Teague’s podcast, going on to suggest that Reese is not a strong WNBA player and she might find a future away from the court in the adult film industry – receiving heavy criticism from fans.

Reese will head into her second season in the WNBA in 2025 after putting in an incredible rookie year with the Chicago Sky, averaging 13.1 rebounds per game – which is the best in league history – doing so in her first year in the league.

The 22-year-old was also just five rebounds away from securing the most boards in league history in one season. She is now set to play in the new Unrivaled 3-on-3 league this offseason, where she will play for Rose BC alongside Chelsea Gray, Lexie Hull, Azura Stevens, Kahleah Cooper and Brittney Sykes.