Following a high-stakes matchup between the Sky and the Fever, which brought in a record-breaking crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Reese took to social media to make a bold claim: she was the reason for the sold-out arena.
“Let’s be real… y’all came to see ME too,” Reese tweeted shortly after the game. “I bring the energy, the drama, and the ratings. Give credit where it’s due.”
The statement immediately divided fans. While some praised Reese for her confidence and self-branding, others accused her of stealing the spotlight from Caitlin Clark, the Fever’s superstar rookie widely credited for boosting WNBA ticket sales and viewership.
“I love Angel, but that building was packed for Caitlin,” one user wrote on X. “Let’s not rewrite history.”
Reese, never one to shy away from controversy, doubled down in postgame interviews. “Look, I love that Caitlin is helping the game grow, but don’t act like I’m not part of that too,” she said. “When Angel Reese comes to town, people pay attention. Period.”
This isn’t the first time the Reese-Clark rivalry has fueled headlines. Ever since their NCAA showdown in 2023, the two have been inextricably linked — competitive on the court and constantly compared off it.
But this latest moment adds a new dimension: marketing power.
The Fever-Sky matchup broke local attendance records and was among the top five most-watched WNBA games of the season. League officials noted that both Clark and Reese rank among the top jersey sellers and most Googled athletes in women’s sports this year.
Still, some feel Reese’s tone overshadowed the collaborative nature of the league’s growth. “It’s not about who’s the biggest draw,” said one veteran WNBA player. “It’s about how all these young stars are helping the league rise — together.”
Others came to Reese’s defense. “She’s not wrong,” said ESPN analyst Monica McNutt. “Angel brings a unique charisma and audience that can’t be ignored. She’s leaning into her role as a disruptor, and it’s working.”
Reese’s Chicago teammate, Marina Mabrey, also chimed in. “We love Angel’s energy. She’s unapologetically herself. That’s what makes her a star.”
Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark remained silent on the matter, opting not to engage in the debate. In a brief postgame statement, she praised the fans and credited “both teams for putting on a show.”
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert issued a neutral response, saying, “We’re thrilled with the attention our athletes are receiving. Sellouts like this are proof that women’s basketball is reaching new heights.”
Behind the scenes, league executives are likely thrilled. The Reese-Clark rivalry — whether real or media-manufactured — continues to drive ratings, headlines, and interest in a way the WNBA hasn’t seen in years.
As for Reese, she’s embracing every second of it. “Call me a villain, call me a star — either way, you’re watching,” she posted on Instagram, flashing her signature smile and a photo of the packed arena behind her.
And whether fans came for Reese, Clark, or both, one thing is certain: the world is watching women’s basketball like never before.
