The Intense Rivalry of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese: A Spotlight on College Sports Icons

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese s College Basketball Dynamic Explained

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Getty Images (2)

Women's college basketball is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, largely due to the intense rivalry between two standout players. Iowa's Caitlin Clark, who recently broke the record for all-time NCAA scoring, and LSU's Angel Reese, who was honored as the SEC Player of the Year, have played a significant role in shaping this new era of the sport. This exciting chapter will reach its peak with an eagerly awaited Elite Eight faceoff between the Hawkeyes and Tigers on Monday, April 1.

The game is a rematch of last year’s NCAA National Championship Game, where LSU emerged victorious over Iowa with a score of 102-85, securing the Tigers their first-ever title.

What’s more, during the game, Reese, who is 21 years old, and Clark, who is 22, engaged in a playful and widely talked about display of sportsmanship that captured the attention of many, even extending beyond the final whistle, with the White House also taking notice.

Before Clark and Reese go head-to-head one final time collegiately, keep reading for a deep dive into their contentious past:

Angel Reese Taunts Caitlin Clark During National Championship Game

During the intense NCAA National Championship Game in April 2023, Reese celebrated her impending victory over Iowa by playfully imitating John Cena's "you can't see me" gesture and pointing to her ring finger, hinting at the championship prize she was about to win.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese s College Basketball Dynamic Explained

Angel Reese #10 of the LSU Lady Tigers reacts towards Caitlin Clark #22 of the Iowa Hawkeyes. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

In the aftermath, some criticized Reese for a lack of sportsmanship.

Former ESPN personality Keith Olbermann tweeted about Reese, calling them a "f–king idiot." He criticized Reese for jeopardizing a championship with their actions, regardless of their gender, sport, or background. Olbermann questioned the team's coaching for allowing such behavior.

Later, Olbermann apologized for his remarks, admitting that he was "uninformed."

Reese Points Out "Double Standard" in Comparison to Clark

Reese, amid facing criticism for her actions, was prompt in highlighting a double standard by pointing out that Clark had made the same "you can't see me" gesture in a previous game in the tournament without receiving any backlash.

Reese expressed at the postgame press conference for the national championship that she doesn't conform to the expectations imposed on her. She mentioned feeling labeled as "too hood" and "too ghetto" throughout the year, while others engaging in similar behavior were not criticized.

She went on to say that her message is for girls who share her appearance and want to stand up for their beliefs. She emphasized the importance of being true to oneself and highlighted that her actions that night were not just about her, but about a larger cause.

Clark Defends Reese From the Backlash

Reese found a very powerful ally in all of the commotion about her on-court behavior: Clark herself.

Clark defended Angel, stating that she should not face any criticism. According to him, everyone knew that there would be some trash talk during the tournament, not just between him and Angel. He emphasized that he is a competitor and respects Angel for competing as well.

Additionally, Clark praised Reese, calling her a "tremendous player" and expressing his admiration for her skills on the court.

“Men have always had trash talk,” Clark continued. “You should be able to play with that emotion. That’s how every girl should continue to play.”

The White House Controversy

The White House typically invites national championship winners for a celebration. However, when First Lady Jill Biden expressed her desire to also invite runner-up Iowa, Reese was not pleased.

In response to the Iowa invite, Reese tweeted a link to a story and called it "A JOKE" along with three rolling-on-the-floor laughing emojis.

The first lady’s press secretary, Vanessa Valdivia, explained Biden’s reasoning behind inviting both teams. She wanted to show appreciation for the historic game and all women athletes, while also recognizing the progress women have made in sports since the passing of Title IX.

However, Reese was not satisfied with this explanation. During an interview on the “I Am Athlete” podcast, Reese expressed her disagreement with the apology. She stated, “I don’t accept that apology because she said what she said. You can’t take back certain things that you say.” Reese also made it clear that she and her team would attend the event hosted by the Obamas, where they would have the opportunity to meet Michelle and Barack.

However, Reese later agreed to visit the White House and even helped present the first lady and President Joe Biden with custom LSU jerseys.

The Evolution of Their Relationship

Reese was open about the mutual respect she and Clark have for each other as both of their programs were once again in the national spotlight.

On Sunday, March 31, Reese shared, "I don’t think people realize it’s not personal. Once we get out between those lines, if I see you walking down the street, it’s like, ‘Hey, girl, what’s up? Let’s hang out.’ I think people just take it like we hate each other. Me and Caitlin Clark don’t hate each other. I want everybody to understand that."

On the court, Reese explained that she leaves all niceties behind. She emphasized that when she steps onto the court, there are no friendships. Reese mentioned that she is willing to engage in trash talk and use any tactic to mentally challenge her opponent throughout the game. However, she clarified that off the court, she is open to hanging out and being friendly with her opponents. Reese believes that this aspect of competition is often overlooked by many.

Reese mentioned that she didn't mind being seen as the "villain" in their rivalry, believing that it has brought more attention to women's basketball and boosted the sport's popularity.

She expressed that she is willing to bear the consequences of this role, emphasizing that the main goal is to continue growing women's basketball. Reese acknowledged that not everyone may agree with their approach, but she is committed to moving forward in this way.

Clark and Reese both share a competitive spirit. Clark expressed this on Sunday, mentioning that they both have a "competitive fire." She added that they both have a deep love for the game since they were kids and will do whatever it takes to support their teams in winning.

Iowa and LSU battle in the Elite Eight on ESPN Monday, April 1, at 7 p.m. ET. The winner advances to the 2024 NCAA Women’s Final Four in Cleveland, Ohio.

Editor's P/S:

The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has undoubtedly elevated the profile of women's college basketball, showcasing the exceptional talent and competitiveness that exists in the sport. Their on-court battles, marked by trash talk and intense play, have captivated fans and generated a buzz that is rarely seen in the women's game. While some may question the level of sportsmanship displayed, it's evident that both Clark and Reese are fierce competitors who push each other to new heights.

Beyond their athletic accomplishments, the personal dynamics between Clark and Reese have added another layer of intrigue to their rivalry. Reese's outspoken nature and willingness to confront perceived double standards have challenged traditional notions of femininity and competition. Clark, on the other hand, has emerged as a vocal advocate for Reese, emphasizing the importance of respecting all athletes, regardless of their background or style of play. Their off-court interactions, including their mutual admiration and willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue, serve as a reminder that even in the most intense rivalries, respect and understanding can prevail.