Reese Discusses Rivalry with Clark
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese recently took time from her busy schedule to participate in ComplexCon in Las Vegas, where she shared insights about her basketball journey during a conversation with Speedy Morman. Following an impressive rookie season in the WNBA, Reese discussed her experiences in the league and her relationship with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark.
Rivalry Dynamics
During the discussion, Morman inquired about the perceived rivalry between Reese and Clark, particularly after they competed for the 2024 Rookie of the Year award, which Clark ultimately won. Reese acknowledged that fans often intensify the narrative of rivalry, stating, "I don't think it's just her fans, I think it's fans in general. People don't realize at the end of the day, we're human. You guys watch us. Knowing that, it's just basketball. I promise you, it's just basketball." She emphasized that there are no hard feelings between them despite the competitive atmosphere.
History and Competition
Reese highlighted the long-standing history between her and Clark, noting their competitive encounters dating back to their AAU days and continuing through their collegiate careers—Reese at LSU and Clark at Iowa. In their rookie WNBA season, they faced off four times, with Clark's Fever winning the series 3-1. Reese's performance during her rookie year was notable, averaging 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, leading the league in rebounds and being the only rookie to achieve a double-double average.
Focus on the Game
Despite the discussions surrounding the Rookie of the Year award, Reese maintained her focus on the sport itself, stating, "It's just basketball." This perspective reflects her commitment to the game and her determination to continue developing as a player.