Dating back to their college days at Iowa and LSU, the rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has fueled intense competition between their fanbases.
Constant comparisons, head-to-head battles on the biggest stages, and the fact that the two were selected No. 1 and No. 2 in the 2024 WNBA draft have only added to the drama, which has now carried over into the professional league.
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While both Clark and Reese have expressed mutual respect for one another, the rivalry between their supporters remains strong, with fans often choosing sides. This tension flared up again over the weekend when both players returned to their respective alma maters for preseason games against the Brazilian National Team.
Following the matchups, Angel Reese’s mother, Angel Webb Reese, directed pointed comments toward Clark and her fans. She took issue with the disparity in attendance—nearly 15,000 fans packed into Iowa for Clark’s game, while Reese and the Chicago Sky played in front of just 6,373 fans at LSU.
“Aww that certain fan base looking in the stands celebrating “attendance” while others are looking up in the rafters celebrating championship banners,” Reese’s mom posted on X. “We ain’t the same. Different year same haters Have a great day.”
The post, which highlighted LSU’s national championship victory over Clark and Iowa in 2023, sparked intense backlash from fans.
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“The Reeses are just weirdos…. Obsessed with one of her peers,” a fan said.
“Year 2 in the wnba and you’re still flexing college rings? Are you not embarrassed?” Another fan posted.
“This is madly embarrassing but you all are obsessed with “clock that” nature lmao. Grow up,” someone else added.
One more fan said, “You’re a grown ass woman attacking a 23 year old? Salty much that Angel ain’t doing shit in the WNBA? I’d be embarrassed AF if my momma posted this [explicit].”
Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark pose for photos before the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music.© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
While the constant comparisons between the two WNBA stars have their downsides, they have also generated more attention for the league than ever before, which has proven to be a huge positive for the sport as a whole.
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The Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky will face off in their regular-season opener on May 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. With just over a week to go, the game is already shaping up to be a sellout, as fans eagerly await another showdown between Clark and Reese.
Related: Shocking Caitlin Clark Announcement Made on Tuesday
