The 2025 WNBA season tipped off on May 16, bringing renewed excitement and intense rivalries to the court. Among the most anticipated matchups was the clash between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky, featuring rising stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Their on-court rivalry, rooted in their collegiate battles, continues to captivate fans and shape the narrative of the league’s new season.
In their season opener, tensions flared when Reese drove to the basket and was met with a hard foul by Clark, resulting in a flagrant foul call. The incident sparked a brief commotion but was quickly defused by referees and teammates. Post-game, Clark described the foul as a “good take foul,” further fueling the competitive dynamic between the two athletes .
Off the court, Angel Reese has not shied away from expressing her opinions, sometimes stirring controversy. An old tweet from 2021 resurfaced, in which Reese critiqued NBA superstar LeBron James’ performance during the Lakers’ playoff series against the Phoenix Suns. Responding to a fan’s comment about James lacking support, Reese tweeted, “no LEBRON WAS NO HELP 😂,” a post she later deleted .
This past January, Reese faced online backlash over her New Year’s Eve outfit, leading her to delete her Instagram account temporarily. The incident highlighted the scrutiny female athletes often endure regarding their personal choices and appearances .
As the WNBA season progresses, all eyes will remain on the dynamic between Reese and Clark, both on and off the court. Their rivalry not only showcases their individual talents but also brings heightened attention and viewership to women’s basketball, signaling a promising future for the league.
