Angel Reese Addresses Rumored Rivalry with Caitlin Clark, Says It's 'Nothing Personal'

Angel Reese, the former Louisiana State University star forward, has addressed rumors of animosity between her and other players, particularly Caitlin Clark, during her college basketball career. Reese and Clark were seen together at pre-draft festivities in New York City, posing for pictures and even taking a selfie.

"There's nothing personal," Reese emphasized, stating that their competitiveness is only on the court. She also congratulated Clark when she became the NCAA Division 1 all-time leading scorer.

Reese has faced criticism for her trash-talking behavior during games, which some have attributed to racism and sexism, as male players and white female players don't typically receive the same level of harsh judgment for similar conduct. Both Reese and Clark have stated that their behavior is strictly about being competitive in the moment and that they have mutual respect for each other.

The 21-year-old Reese, known as 'Bayou Barbie' during her time at LSU, was selected 7th overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft. She will now be teammates with Kamilla Cardoso, another top WNBA prospect who won the NCAA women's tournament with the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Reese expressed that the best part of the draft weekend in New York City was getting to know all the other players, despite being so competitive with them over the last 4 years. She reiterated that the competitiveness is only on the court and that there is nothing personal.

Both Reese and Clark, who were first-round overall picks, will hope to continue the momentum they created in lifting women's college basketball to new heights as they transition to the WNBA. Reese is now looking for a new nickname that is 'cute and catchy' as she begins her professional career with the Chicago Sky, who won the WNBA championship in 2021.

Why this matters: The rivalry between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark captured the attention of basketball fans during their college careers. As they enter the WNBA, their ability to maintain a competitive spirit on the court while fostering respect and camaraderie off the court sets a positive example for aspiring young athletes.

Reese's week following the draft has been eventful, including a guest appearance on 'Saturday Night Live', an awkward interaction with a sports columnist, and blocking former NFL player Antonio Brown on social media after he seemingly targeted her appearance. Despite the hectic nature of the past week, Reese expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has received and excitement to start her professional career.

Key Takeaways

• Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark have a competitive but respectful relationship.
• Reese faced criticism for her trash-talking, which some attribute to racism and sexism.
• Reese was drafted 7th overall by the Chicago Sky and will play with Kamilla Cardoso.
• Reese and Clark, as top WNBA prospects, aim to continue elevating women's basketball.
• Reese had an eventful week, including a SNL appearance and blocking Antonio Brown.