On Tuesday, controversial columnist Christine Brennan released her new book about Caitlin Clark, titled On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports. While the book has attracted attention, Brennan has sparked backlash after her social media behavior offended many Angel Reese fans and others connected to the WNBA community.
When the book debuted, a social media user shared an image portraying Brennan being targeted by Angel Reese fans, A’ja Wilson supporters, and Black Twitter. Brennan retweeted this image with clear amusement, which further intensified the anger from some online users.
“Too funny not to retweet, Trysta,” Brennan posted on X. “Thanks to everyone and happy reading. There are surprises for all.”
—Christine Brennan, Columnist
This response prompted strong reactions from members of the basketball community and fans. Several criticized Brennan for what they saw as unprofessional conduct and alleged racism in her interactions.
“im sorry this is legitimately insane behavior — unprofessional, dangerous, disingenuous, racist … when will steps finally be taken to protect your players from this malicious woman? @wnba @wnbpa,” one netizen tweeted.
—Anonymous Netizen
“Why has the @WNBA not addressed this woman yet when players have requested for her credentials to be revoked due to her open and overt racism?” another user questioned.
—Anonymous Netizen
Brennan’s book explores Caitlin Clark’s impact on basketball, highlighting the sensation Clark has created since her college career began. However, Brennan reportedly never interviewed Clark herself, and critics have noted that the book lacks a thorough examination of the star’s life both on and off the court.
Rob Merrill of the Associated Press mentioned in a review that On Her Game does not delve deeply into Clark’s personal story as much as some readers might expect.
Christine Brennan Highlights Caitlin Clark’s Role in Boosting WNBA Interest
Despite the criticism, Brennan has remained active in promoting her book. During a conversation on CBS’s The Takeout With Major Garrett, she praised Caitlin Clark’s influence on the rising popularity of the WNBA.
“It is now cool to be a WNBA fan. And it is cool to love Caitlin Clark,” Brennan stated during the interview.
—Christine Brennan, Columnist
She added that male fans have become enthusiastic supporters, purchasing Clark’s jerseys and wearing them not just to games but also in everyday settings like grocery stores and gas stations, underscoring the cultural shift surrounding women’s basketball fandom.
Social Media Backlash Reflects Deep Divides Among Fans
The debate surrounding Brennan’s book and her reactions on social media underline tensions within the basketball community, particularly between supporters of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Brennan’s retweet and comments were viewed by some as dismissive toward Reese’s fans, fueling ongoing disputes online.
This controversy could have implications for how media figures engage with athletes and their communities, especially regarding sensitive topics involving race and fandom dynamics in women’s sports.
As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity, the perspectives shared by voices like Brennan remain influential, but they also face increasing scrutiny from fans and players determined to protect their reputations and narratives.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Reese shared in a TikTok video on Sunday night that she injured her hand during a fall after an “and-1” play. She explained that she has a minor bone fracture in her hand. The doctors informed her that she can choose between having surgery or not having it.
Q. Does Angel Reese have a 1.6 GPA?
A. Reese finished her studies at Louisiana State University in March 2024, earning a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. Her focus areas included Communication Studies, Leadership Development, and Psychology.
To graduate, she met the requirement of maintaining a GPA higher than 2.0.
Q. What was Angel Reese’s injury?
A. They lost seven games straight but finally defeated the Los Angeles Sparks on September 6. Unfortunately, Reese then broke her left wrist, needing surgery. Even with their key player out, they won their following game but lost the next five. “That was obviously disappointing,” she commented.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Angel inherited her basketball skills because both of her parents were involved in playing basketball at college and professional levels.