The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has sparked widespread discussion throughout the WNBA since both players entered the league last year. Sue Bird, a WNBA legend, weighed in on the matter during a podcast interview with Taylor Rooks on Tuesday, addressing the ongoing rivalry and the surrounding controversy.
Bird, who enjoyed a 20-year career in the WNBA and earned four championships along with 13 All-Star selections, shared her views on how the tension between Clark and Reese has been exaggerated. She pointed to the league’s recent investigation into racial issues and the Indiana Fever as background for why perceptions of their interactions might be overblown.
In her remarks, Bird emphasized the physical and competitive nature of the WNBA, likening it to men’s sports where on-court altercations are part of the game:
“Our league, the WNBA is physical and very competitive. The same way when you watch the men’s sports. This is not new.
“All the little fights … this has been in our league from the jump, and it doesn’t have some deeper meaning to it,” she added.
These comments came after an event during the season opener where Clark was called for a flagrant foul on Reese for holding her down and blocking a layup attempt. The incident led to an investigation of hateful conduct from fans, although the league later stated it could not confirm such actions.
Clark and Reese have been known rivals since their college basketball days. They were both selected in the 2024 WNBA Draft, with Clark chosen first overall by the Indiana Fever and Reese picked seventh by the Chicago Sky. Both players earned All-Star status in their debut WNBA season, with Clark also securing the Rookie of the Year award in 2024.
Understanding the Competitive Intensity Between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese
The two players themselves have downplayed the intensity of their physical encounters during games, reinforcing the idea that their rivalry is part of the natural competition in basketball rather than anything personal or harmful. Their opinions align with Bird’s perspective on the issue.
“Basketball play, refs got it right, move on,” the Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese said.
“It’s just a good take foul. … Either Angel gets wide open two points or we send them to the free-throw line. Nothing malicious about it. It’s just a good take foul, every basketball player knows that,” Caitlin Clark explained.
Both athletes will face each other at least three more times during the 2024 WNBA season, continuing to fuel what many regard as one of the most captivating rivalries that have significantly contributed to the sport’s rising popularity among women’s basketball fans.
Their competition brings a spotlight on the intense skill level and physicality within the league, reflecting its growth and the passionate engagement of players and fans alike. As Clark and Reese continue to develop their careers, their contests are expected to maintain interest and highlight the evolving narrative surrounding women’s professional basketball.