Angel Reese: WNBA Hype Extends Beyond Caitlin Clark, ‘Because of Me Too’

In a subtle reference to Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky suggested that the increasing popularity of the WNBA is not solely due to one player, and that she also deserves recognition.

“I’ll reflect in 20 years and acknowledge that the reason women’s basketball is gaining attention isn’t just because of one individual,” she expressed to reporters on Monday night. “It’s because of me as well, and I want everyone to understand that.”

Reese mentioned that the recent buzz surrounding the WNBA can be traced back to a rivalry that began in college when her LSU Tigers triumphed over Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes in the NCAA championship game two years ago. Reese stated that she was fine with being labeled the “bad guy” in the rivalry if it means that the popularity of women’s basketball continues to soar.

“It all started from the national championship game, and I’ve been dealing with this for two years now,” Reese explained. “And, understanding that negative things may have been said about me, but I’ll accept that. Look at where women’s basketball stands now. People who never would have talked about women’s basketball are now discussing it.”

Reese’s remarks came shortly after her matchup with Clark in the WNBA, which also did not end without some controversy. During the game where the Fever defeated Chicago 71-70, Clark received a hard shoulder hit from Reese’s teammate Chennedy Carter, causing her to stumble to the floor. Post-game, both Reese and Carter declined to address questions about the foul, resulting in Reese being fined $1,000 by the league for skipping the media session.

ESPN host Pat McAfee also found himself in the midst of controversy for comments he made about the feud, referring to Clark in a derogatory manner and labeling her as the driving force behind the growing WNBA fanbase. Following the backlash, McAfee issued an apology on social media.

“My intentions were meant to be complimentary in the segment, but many are saying otherwise,” he stated. “That’s entirely on me, and for that, I apologize.”