Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese (Image Credits: Getty Images)
Caitlin Clark, the standout player for the Indiana Fever, is always in the spotlight as many analysts and fans continue to give their opinions about her. However, the most crucial debate surrounding the 22-year-old guard is the long-standing rivalry between her and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese.
The rivalry began during the April 2023 NCAA National Championship Game between LSU and Iowa, where Reese made a “You can’t see me” gesture towards Clark, indicating her belief that she would win the championship. This incident marked the beginning of a long-term rivalry between these rising stars. However, when it comes to the WNBA Rookie of the Year honor, many analysts and WNBA players give their opinions on their choices.
“They [are] both having great years. But if I had to pick a Rookie of the Year… Today it’s Angel [Reese]. Not a doubt.”
Do you agree with Dawn Staley? 🤔
(via @TMZ_Sports)pic.twitter.com/arSE87F7Xn
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 13, 2024
During a recent interview with TMZ Sports at the airport, South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley opened up about her picks for the Rookie of the Year honor. The former WNBA player spills multiple names to determine who can win the award. However, when asked about her pick between Reese and Clark, Staley highlighted that both Reese and Clark have had great years, but if she had to choose between the two, she would select Reese over Clark because of her ability to achieve double-doubles.
“They both are having great years. Don’t get me wrong. If I had to pick a Rookie of the Year at this time … today, it’s Angel. There is no doubt. What she’s been able to do with the double-doubles. But listen, the season is halfway through, and Caitlin is coming.” Staley said during her interview with TMZ Sports.
Staley Raves About Another Star Player Besides Clark and Reese
Staley didn’t hesitate to praise some of the game’s rising talents, including Hannah Hidalgo, JuJu Watkins, and MiLaysia Fulwiley. She expressed her excitement about the future of women’s basketball. Watkins stands out as her favorite among these names due to her incredible talent.
“JuJu Watkins is making a name for herself in the game. She’s been breaking records and showing incredible talent on the court.” Staley added.
Clark quickly gained a large fan base and supporters after her debut in the WNBA. Multiple analysts and players have praised her exceptional court skills. However, she has also faced criticism from some individuals. After her debut, she has faced many backlashes from players and analysts. Recently, former tennis player Serena Williams made a racist joke about Caitlin Clark, sparking debate among fans.
“Lucky He’s Not in Prison for Theft…”- Stephen A. Smith Takes Aim at Brooklyn Nets’ Ben Simmons for Lackluster Performance
Stephen A. Smith and Ben Simmons (Image Source: X/theOGsShow, Getty Images)
Stephen A. Smith, the renowned NBA analyst, is well-known for calling a spade a spade. Throughout his career, he has shared his critical views on many players, and this time, the one who came on his radar was the Brooklyn Nets’ Ben Simmons.
Recently, a video of the 3-time All-Star surfaced on the internet showing his workout session. This didn’t go well with Smith, who harshly discussed it on the ‘OGs’ podcast. Lashing out at Simmons, Smith said, “The only injury that I’ve ever questioned is that damn Ben Simmons. He’s lucky he’s not in prison for theft… I’m sure of all the places he could really get focused and zero in on his basketball prowess.”
The veteran clarified that he is not questioning Simmons’ injury but pointing out how the Australian missed games even before that. To Smith, this indicated that the athlete didn’t love the sport.
Smith also touched on Simmons’ mental health issues, which the former claimed to be supportive of. However, appearing for only 57 games in two seasons and dropping 6.7 points per night was not something one expected from the first-round pick.
