Sheryl Swoopes addressed recent comments made by former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III regarding Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, challenging Griffin’s suggestion that Reese hates Clark. In a video shared on X from the Gil’s Arena podcast, the WNBA legend dismissed RG III’s narrative as misleading and questioned his motivation for repeatedly bringing up Reese’s name.
Swoopes expressed frustration over the drama, highlighting the unnecessary tension created by Griffin’s accusations during a heated social media controversy. She cast doubt on Griffin’s claim that someone within Reese’s circle contacted him to say Reese hated Clark, labeling the story as false.
“I am tired. The narrative is tired,” Swoopes said. “My biggest question though, for RG III is like why do you keep Angel’s name in your mouth? I don’t know if he is obsessed with her…to say that someone in Angel’s circle called him and told him that she hates Caitlin, it’s bulls**.”
The Hall of Famer further criticized Griffin for his immaturity, urging him to move on from stirring conflict between the WNBA stars.
“At some point, as a grown man, like find something else to do, instead of sitting here trying to put Angel against Caitlin.”
Despite the controversy, Swoopes emphasized that any dislike between Reese and Clark should not be exaggerated or blown out of proportion.
“I think both of them have actually said they don’t hate each other. But I will also say if they don’t like each other, that’s okay,” she added.
Earlier in the month, Griffin had posted on X that he had evidence showing Reese’s hostility toward Clark, claiming that someone from Reese’s camp told him that Reese resented constant media comparisons to Clark.
“Reese has grown to hate Caitlin Clark because of the media always asking her about Caitlin and being constantly compared to her,” Griffin on what the person from Reese’s camp said.
RG III was not the only athlete showing frustration over the situation; NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal reportedly expressed anger and said he would confront Griffin physically if he continued to publicly discuss Reese in this manner.
How Sheryl Swoopes Views Angel Reese’s Marketing Potential
The WNBA has evolved significantly since Sheryl Swoopes’ playing days, with current players securing far more lucrative brand deals and endorsement opportunities. Against this backdrop, Swoopes made a bold statement regarding Angel Reese’s potential financial success in the league.
“Angel Reese could potentially be the biggest, highest-paid WNBA player ever,” she said.
Swoopes highlighted Reese’s business savvy, noting how she capitalizes on her on-court achievements by leveraging her image for endorsements and trademarks.
“Like people are coming for her for rebounds, and she’s like ‘Oh! Let me go trademark this and let me get a bag off of this.'”
Gilbert Arenas, a former NBA player and host on the Gil’s Arena podcast, weighed in on Reese’s marketing value in relation to another rising star, JuJu Watkins. While acknowledging Watkins’ rise, Arenas argued Reese is the superior choice for brands looking for influential endorsements.
“But when you are talking about marketing value, when you are trying to sell a product, I am looking for the Angel Reese, coz I know she is gonna go out there and sell the product…in so many different styles.”
Reese’s expanding portfolio boasts partnerships with major companies such as Discord, Amazon, McDonald’s, Wingstop, Coach, Xfinity, Sonic, and TurboTax. Last November, she publicly stated that she had already achieved millionaire status, reflecting her growing prominence both on and off the court.
Implications of Reese’s Rising Profile Amid Controversy
Sheryl Swoopes’ defense of Angel Reese comes at a time when Reese’s star power continues to rise, not only through athletic performance but also through strategic brand building. Challenges stirred by figures like Robert Griffin III have sparked intense public debate, but Swoopes’ remarks aim to defuse unnecessary conflict while underscoring Reese’s maturity and market appeal.
As Angel Reese’s visibility and influence expand within the WNBA and beyond, her ability to generate substantial endorsement deals could set a new benchmark for female athletes in basketball. With strong backing from former legends and influential voices such as Gilbert Arenas, Reese’s path suggests a shift in the sports marketing landscape, where female players can command unprecedented financial success and cultural impact.
The ongoing discourse around Reese and Clark highlights the complexities of athlete rivalries amplified by media and social platforms. Yet the core message from Swoopes and supporters calls for focusing on the positive growth and commercial opportunities for WNBA players rather than fueling divisive narratives.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Reese shared in a TikTok video that she injured her hand after falling when she got an and-1. She explained that the fall caused a small crack in her bone. According to Reese, doctors advised she could either choose to not have surgery or go through with it.
Q. Does Angel Reese have a 1.6 GPA?
A. Additionally, Reese earned her degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from LSU in March 2024. Her focus areas were Communication Studies, Leadership Development, and Psychology. This means she maintained at least a 2.0 GPA, which is needed for graduation.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Angel got her basketball skills from her parents, who both played in college and professionally.