The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has transcended basketball. Even non-hoops fans consistently toss in their thoughts on social media about different topics concerning them. As their rookie season deepens, it seems like the rift between opposing fans of both players has only gotten bigger.
It’s common for Clark and Reese’s respective fan bases to throw accusations and take shots at one another. Although the publicity and attention have only made the WNBA even more popular than ever, some results have gone overboard.
Vanshay Murdock, a Minnesota Lynx videographer and a Caitlin Clark fan, shared on X, formerly Twitter, a message he received from someone. Murdock’s former follower told him this on Snapchat:
“Found out you a CC Stan I gotta unfollow you let the culture down”
The topic of racism has been at the center of the Clark-Reese rivalry ever since they starred for Iowa and LSU, respectively. When they got to the WNBA, that issue has only gotten bigger and more pronounced. The league itself was accused of picking sides, particularly during the pro debuts of both players.
In Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky’s preseason debut against the Minnesota Lynx, the WNBA failed to make it available. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s first game in the pros was streamed.
The disparity in coverage was not intentional as the WNBA apologized for the error. Considering the background of the players’ rivalry, the league should have been more sensitive.
Racism doesn’t have to be involved when supporting basketball players. Vanshay Murdocks’ crying emojis after his tweet said it all. Fans should be able to root for somebody regardless of color without getting repercussions.
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese teaming up for the All-Star game has hyped-up basketball fans
Early this month, the league announced the players who will play in the 2024 All-Star Game. The event will be played at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Unlike past years, the showdown will be between Team WNBA and Team USA.
Indiana Fever teammates Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston were 1-2 in fan votes. Las Vegas Aces superstar A’ja Wilson, reigning MVP Breanna Stewart and Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese round up the top 5. Wilson and Stewart are part of the USAB women’s team that will compete in the Olympics. Clark, Boston and Reese will lead the WNBA selection.
The All-Star Game will mark the first time Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese will be on the same side. Basketball fans can’t wait for the two to connect on the floor. Many will also be wondering if that will have an impact in toning down racism among the fans of both players.
