Angel Reese Speaks Out: “It’s Not Just Caitlin Clark” — The WNBA’s Spotlight Isn’t a One-Woman Show

Published: June 3, 2025

Introduction

Angel Reese, one of the brightest rising stars in the WNBA and a key figure for the Chicago Sky, has finally spoken up amid growing public debate about the league’s recent explosion in popularity. In an impassioned statement, Reese made it clear: while Caitlin Clark has undoubtedly brought eyes to the sport, the spotlight should never be reserved for just one athlete. “The reason why we’re watching women’s basketball is not just because of one person,” she said. “It’s because of me too.”

The remark, delivered after a game press conference, has gone viral, igniting passionate responses from fans, sports analysts, and even fellow WNBA players. It also underscores a deeper issue the league is currently grappling with — the perception that Caitlin Clark alone is responsible for the WNBA’s growing mainstream appeal.

Let’s unpack what led to this statement, why it matters, and what it reveals about the dynamics and future of women’s basketball.

The “Caitlin Clark Effect”: Catalyst or Overhyped Narrative?

Since entering the league as the No. 1 overall draft pick by the Indiana Fever, Caitlin Clark has been at the center of a media frenzy. Her collegiate dominance at Iowa, where she became NCAA Division I’s all-time leading scorer, brought unprecedented attention to women’s basketball.

Clark’s debut WNBA games sold out arenas. Her jersey quickly became a top-seller. Social media engagement surrounding the Fever skyrocketed. Even ticket resale prices for her appearances broke records. For example, Clark’s preseason debut at Iowa’s Carver-Hawkeye Arena sold out in under 36 minutes, with VIP tickets being resold for up to $45,000.

Her presence in any matchup guarantees a spike in attendance, TV ratings, and merchandise sales. Dubbed “The Caitlin Clark Effect,” this phenomenon is real — but is it overshadowing the collective efforts of the league’s other talents?

Angel Reese Responds: “I Know My Worth”

Angel Reese has been consistently vocal about issues of visibility, representation, and equality in sports. Known as the “Bayou Barbie” during her college days at LSU, Reese helped bring LSU to a national championship and has carried her signature confidence into her rookie WNBA season.

Following reports that ticket prices for Chicago Sky games dramatically dipped when Clark was absent, Reese took the opportunity to address what she sees as an imbalance in how media and fans credit the WNBA’s growth:

“People are pulling up to games. We got celebrities coming to games, sold out arenas… The reason why we’re watching women’s basketball is not just because of one person. I want y’all to realize that.”

Her statement came amid news that ticket prices for Clark’s games against the Sky dropped by 71% due to injury rumors. In contrast, games where Clark played were sold out, with thousands in attendance. It was a data point that many took to mean Reese and other players weren’t as “marketable.”

But Reese isn’t having it.

“I know my impact. I know what I bring. I know my fan base is strong too,” she later added in a follow-up social media post. “I stand with my sisters in the league. We are all making history.”

Empty Seats and Unequal Narratives

To be fair, the data doesn’t lie. Clark’s presence moves the needle. Her Iowa finale drew more than 9 million viewers — more than the MLB World Series Game 1 and most NBA playoff games last year. When she’s absent, ticket prices and turnout dip dramatically.

But attributing the WNBA’s rising success to her alone is not only shortsighted — it’s disrespectful to the work of athletes like Reese, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and countless others who have spent years building the league’s reputation.

A recent study by Sportico highlighted that 64% of new fans attributed their interest in the WNBA to multiple players — not just Clark. Angel Reese ranked second in name recognition among rookies, and her off-court influence (with major sponsorships, viral social media presence, and fashion industry crossovers) has brought its own momentum to the league.

Celebrity Support, Rivalries, and the Drama Factor

One of the undeniable appeals of the current WNBA season has been the dramatic tension. Clark and Reese, famously rivals since the 2023 NCAA Finals, now play for opposing pro teams, reigniting fan interest with every matchup. Their rivalry, real or imagined, has been a major narrative driver.

When the Sky and Fever played last month, celebrities like Chance the Rapper and Gabrielle Union were spotted courtside. ESPN and ABC bumped up coverage. Social media platforms like TikTok saw millions of views on highlight reels.

And while the headlines may focus on Clark’s clutch threes or tough screens, Reese’s defensive prowess, rebounding, and leadership have been instrumental in keeping the Sky competitive.

Team Dynamics vs. Individual Fame

Some sports analysts argue that WNBA teams must find balance between marketing stars and promoting the collective brand. The NBA faced similar dilemmas in the Michael Jordan era. Clark is undeniably a generational talent — but even Jordan didn’t carry the league alone.

Reese’s advocacy might help the WNBA avoid falling into a single-star dependency trap.

“Elevating the league means supporting all the stars,” said analyst Monica McNutt on ESPN. “You can’t build a legacy league on one person. And truthfully, Reese’s outspokenness is part of what’s making this season electric.”

What Does This Mean for the WNBA’s Future?

Reese’s statement comes at a time when the WNBA is expanding in almost every direction. Revenue is up, ratings are booming, and talks of adding more teams are intensifying. A stronger league benefits from stronger voices — especially ones that push back against skewed narratives.

It’s also a reminder that today’s athletes aren’t just performers — they’re brand ambassadors, advocates, and leaders.

Reese’s call for recognition isn’t a dismissal of Clark’s impact. Rather, it’s an invitation to broaden the lens through which we view success in women’s sports.

“We all belong in the conversation,” Reese said. “And I’m going to make sure I’m part of it.”

Conclusion

The 2025 WNBA season is not just a story of one rising star, but of many. From locker room leadership to buzzer-beating shots, what’s unfolding on the court is a collective triumph. Angel Reese’s words serve as both a reality check and a rallying cry: growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s time we recognize the full mosaic — not just one piece.

Whether you’re Team Clark, Team Reese, or just Team WNBA, one thing is clear: women’s basketball has arrived, and it’s not backing down.

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