Fox Sports analyst Joy Taylor examined the ongoing Angel Reese Caitlin Clark rivalry, emphasizing the role Reese’s “villain” persona plays in elevating Clark’s profile. On The Joe Budden Podcast aired Monday, Taylor connected the intense rivalry to racial tensions and how it influences public and media perception.
Taylor drew parallels between Reese and Clark’s dynamic and the historic NBA competition between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird in the 1980s, highlighting the necessity of having a “villain” figure in a compelling sports narrative.
“I think storylines are so f****ng important,” Taylor said. “I think you need villians. I think you need heroes. You need sh*t to sell. You got to sell a fight, like brand all of this. And it upset white men, who watched this strong, winning, unapologetic black women… be in Caitlin’s face.”
“And it’s now spun into this whole thing where Caitlin’s better than Angel. I just said, we would not be talking about Caitlin Clark the way that we do if it wasn’t for that moment with Angel Reese. And I will die on this hill.”
Background and Recent Developments in the Reese-Clark Rivalry
The tension between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark dates back to their college basketball days and continues now in the WNBA. Their rivalry gained national attention following the WNBA season opener on May 17, when Clark was called for a flagrant foul against Reese, sparking a notable altercation between the two. Despite this heated moment, both players have publicly dismissed it as not being driven by genuine animosity.
Joy Taylor, known for hosting The Joy Taylor Show and co-hosting Speak alongside former NFL player Keyshawn Johnson and basketball Hall of Famer Paul Pierce, has been a vocal voice regarding the narrative shaping their rivalry. Taylor has also worked with prominent sports commentators Skip Bayless and Shannon Sharpe, gaining wide recognition in sports media circles.
WNBA Star Candace Parker Addresses Comparisons Between Reese and Clark
WNBA legend Candace Parker offered her perspective on the comparisons of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark during an episode of the Spolitics podcast with Jemele Hill on June 8. Parker questioned the fairness of equating the two athletes, citing differences in their playing styles and roles on the court.
“I just think that it’s like comparing apples and oranges,” Parker said (Timestamp: 26:32). “Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, it’s like, what are we doing? They like doing the Magic and Bird comparison; well, they played similar positions. Bird wasn’t a point guard, but he played the guard position. They at least kind of match up.
“This? What are we doing? I’m not falling into that. I’m not into the comparison. I think there are a number of things that Angel can improve on, will improve on in the situation she’s in. And I think Caitlin Clark has done that, even in her first year, in terms of being able to be that floor general.”
Performance Stats and Upcoming Matchup Between Indiana Fever and Chicago Sky
Caitlin Clark, playing for the Indiana Fever, is averaging 19.8 points, 8.9 assists, and 5.4 rebounds through eight games this season, showcasing her ability as a primary playmaker. Meanwhile, Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky has recorded 10.8 points per game and an impressive 11.5 rebounds across 13 games.
The anticipation for their next encounter is building ahead of the July 27 game at the United Center in Chicago, where Clark’s Fever will face Reese’s Sky once again, continuing this highly publicized rivalry.
The Broader Significance of This High-Profile WNBA Rivalry
The ongoing Angel Reese Caitlin Clark rivalry is not only shaping individual careers but also revealing deeper issues related to race, media narratives, and fan reactions in women’s sports. As Taylor noted, much of the backlash and discussion is tied to how audiences respond to strong Black women standing their ground against talented counterparts.
With Reese’s “villain” role driving narratives that elevate Clark’s underdog reputation, the rivalry is expected to remain a focal point in WNBA coverage. Their competitive showcases will likely influence how future storylines in women’s basketball are crafted and received by fans and media alike.