Angel Reese, a rising star in women’s basketball, has brought attention to a surprising issue among potential supporters: reluctance to vote for her as Rookie of the Year (ROTY) over fears of backlash from fans of competitor Caitlin Clark.
The revelation highlights the complexities of fan loyalty and the impact of competitive dynamics in sports awards.
“Many people have indicated they want to support me, but they’re concerned about the potential hate from Caitlin’s fans,” Reese shared, offering a transparent view on the complexities of support and rivalry in professional sports.
The statement comes at a time when Reese and Clark have emerged as prominent figures in women’s basketball, each amassing dedicated followings among fans. While healthy competition fuels spirited support, it also raises questions about the boundaries of sportsmanship and respect within fan communities.
Fans of Caitlin Clark, known for their fervent admiration and vocal support, have responded with varied reactions to Reese’s comments. Some have expressed surprise and disappointment, emphasizing their admiration for Clark’s talents without harboring animosity towards other players.
Reese and Clark have emerged as leading contenders for the ROTY title, each garnering dedicated support from fans who admire their talents and contributions to the sport. While healthy competition fuels passionate support, it also underscores the importance of maintaining respect and fairness in sportsmanship.
Fans of Caitlin Clark, known for their fervent admiration and vocal support, have responded with a range of reactions to Reese’s comments. Some have expressed surprise and disappointment, emphasizing their admiration for Clark’s s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s without harboring animosity towards other athletes.
“I support Caitlin because of her abilities and dedication, not because of any ill will towards other players,” commented one fan, reflecting sentiments shared by many within the basketball community.
Conversely, supporters of Angel Reese have rallied behind her, highlighting her achievements and advocating for a fair assessment of her abilities regardless of fan affiliations. The discourse underscores the importance of fostering an environment where athletes can compete vigorously while maintaining mutual respect both on and off the court.
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese recently took to social media, sharing an intriguing message with fans just days after she lost the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year race to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark.
Reese finished second to Clark for the Rookie of the Year award. The Fever star earned 66 first-place votes, while the Sky forward earned one first-place vote.
The 22-year-old WNBA star has been active on social media after the announcement but has yet to comment on the final Rookie of the Year selection.
On Saturday, Reese mentioned that there’s a lot on her mind, but right now, she’s minding her business.
“I really just be minding my business cause it’s a lot to mind,” Reese said.
Reese shared this message to over 637k followers on X. She has a strong following on social media, with over eight million combined followers on Instagram, TikTok and X.
Reese finished her rookie season with the Sky averaging 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game. Her season was cut short with just a few games left on the schedule due to a season-ending wrist injury, but she still made her mark in 34 games with Chicago.
The WNBA All-Star led the league in average rebounds and was the only rookie to average a double-double.
Team WNBA forward Angel Reese (5) and Team WNBA guard Caitlin Clark (22)
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
In Clark’s rookie season with the Fever, she averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game. The first-year star led the WNBA in average assists and led the rookie class in both points and assists.
She also helped Indiana clinch a spot in the WNBA playoffs for the first time since 2016.
While the Fever were bounced in the first round after getting swept by the Connecticut Sun, a 20-20 season with the No. 6 seed in the WNBA standings is certainly a progression for Indiana after they finished the 2023 season with a 13-27 record.
