Caitlin Clark Counters Angel Reese with Graceful Message
The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has reignited, this time on the WNBA stage. Clark, a star for the Indiana Fever, subtly responded to Reese’s latest comments after securing her first victory of the 2024-25 WNBA season against the Los Angeles Sparks.
Angel Reese, now playing for the Chicago Sky, recently took to social media to imply that the Indiana Fever lacks team unity. She posted, “And that’s on getting a WIN in a packed arena. Not just cause of one player on our charter flight. #SKYTOWN.” This comment seemed to target Clark, who has faced scrutiny and rumors about her adaptation to the professional game and popularity issues linked to institutional racism.
Incredibly disheartening to see Angel Reese attack Caitlin Clark like this. Just entirely baseless and distasteful. The tweet screams jealousy and insecurity.
Although, Caitlin Clark probably deserved this given she has white, straight, pretty & tall-privilege. Right, @sunny? pic.twitter.com/CHfIDNOCRo
— Riley Gaines (@Riley_Gaines_) May 24, 2024
Caitlin Clark’s Response
Clark, the 22-year-old former Iowa Hawkeye, responded indirectly but firmly to Angel Reese’s jab. “To be honest, I’m not really on social media,” Clark said. “I’ve got to treat this like it’s my job. My job is to compete and play basketball every single day.”
She emphasized her focus on helping her team improve and winning games, rather than engaging in social media spats. “The more attention we can get on every team around this league is going to help it get better and better,” Clark added. “I’m fighting for our first win, and that’s my main focus.”
Caitlin Clark entered the WNBA with high expectations as the first overall pick, holding both female and outright points-scoring records in the NCAA. Despite her stellar college career, her transition to the professional level has come with challenges and a fair share of criticism from peers.
Support from NBA Legends
Clark’s reception in the WNBA has not been universally welcoming. Some players appear to resent the hype surrounding her. This has drawn the ire of NBA legends like LeBron James and Charles Barkley, who have publicly defended Clark.
Barkley, on “Inside The NBA,” addressed the criticism directly: “You women out there, y’all petty man. LeBron, you are 100% right about these girls hating on Caitlin Clark. Y’all should be thanking that girl for getting y’all private charters and all the money and visibility she’s bringing into the WNBA. Don’t be petty like dudes.”
‘Inside the NBA’ star Charles Barkley defends Caitlin Clark from ‘petty women’ amid ‘pretty privilege’ claims over rookie’s meteoric WNBA rise https://t.co/2GYjdccdzG pic.twitter.com/vhNxKL6PXG
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) May 23, 2024
As Caitlin Clark continues her WNBA journey, she remains focused on her performance and team success. Her approach to handling criticism and rivalry off the court mirrors her competitive spirit on it. With backing from high-profile supporters and a steadfast dedication to her game, Clark aims to let her on-court achievements speak louder than any social media feud.
Caitlin Clark hits back at Angel Reese with a subtle message that shows where her priorities lie https://t.co/JvRItYSnxZ Caitlin Clark’s working on Mamba Mentality! Treating this as your job, which it is, and working hard will ensure your success and continual improvement.
— Lucille Holt (@adeline9) May 25, 2024
The rivalry between Clark and Reese may add an intriguing subplot to the WNBA season, but for Clark, the priority remains clear: to excel in her professional career and help elevate the league as a whole.