Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese – Real Heat or Just a Show?

 May 21, 2025

🏀 The Ongoing Rivalry Between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese: Real Tension or Media Creation?

Over the past few years, the so-called rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has become one of the hottest topics in women’s basketball. But is this a real, intense competition or simply a narrative inflated by the media? Fans and media outlets continue to debate this question, while both players have attempted to maintain professionalism and avoid unnecessary conflict.

🔥 The Origin of the Rivalry

The so-called rivalry began during the 2023 NCAA championship game, when Angel Reese made a controversial gesture towards Caitlin Clark by pointing at her face in a taunting manner. This sparked widespread criticism from fans and experts, but Reese later clarified that the gesture was simply part of the intense nature of the game and not a personal attack on Clark.

“I love Caitlin. We’ve been competing since we were in AAU. Hopefully, one day we can even be teammates,” Reese said after the game. (Sporting News)

💥 Recent Incidents: Another Chapter in the Rivalry?

Most recently, in a May 17 game between Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky, the rivalry seemed to heat up again. Clark committed a flagrant foul on Reese, resulting in a brief altercation. However, new footage revealed that Reese had initiated contact with Natasha Howard earlier in the play, which was overlooked by the referees.

Clark defended her actions, describing the incident as just a typical basketball play. Reese, on the other hand, played down the incident after the game. (NY Post)

🎤 The Media Amplification of the Rivalry

Despite both players attempting to downplay their rivalry, the media has continued to fuel the narrative, often disregarding the players’ own statements. Clark expressed frustration with the constant talk surrounding the rivalry, saying, “I’m pretty sure the only people that view this as a rivalry are all of you. To us, it’s just a game of basketball.” (Glamour)

📣 Reaffirming Their Respect for Each Other

Both players have repeatedly emphasized that their careers are not defined by personal conflicts but by their shared commitment to growing the sport of women’s basketball. Despite the media’s attempts to portray them as rivals, Clark and Reese have made it clear that their focus is on sportsmanship and mutual respect.

🔗 For More Information:

New video angle of Caitlin Clark’s foul on Angel Reese emerges as rivalry heats up
Angel Reese breaks silence after 14-year WNBA history but bitter rival Caitlin Clark turns attention to ‘my GOAT’ LeBron