The intense rivalry that began in the 2023 NCAA Final escalated in 2024 when Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark entered the WNBA scene. Their clash in the previous NCAA Finals had set the stage for an exciting showdown. Angel Reese’s bold “you can’t see me” gestures created buzz and sparked debates on social media. While some fans supported Caitlin Clark, others were drawn to Reese’s fearless attitude.
In 2024, these former college basketball stars made their much-anticipated WNBA debuts, facing off multiple times during the season. As the year comes to a close, let’s look back at the top five moments where the rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese stole the spotlight and had fans buzzing.
5. WNBA Draft Day: (April 15, 2024)
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After successful college careers, Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark were ready to take the next step in the WNBA. Fans were eager to see these two stars at the WNBA Draft where their futures would be determined.
At the draft, Clark was the No. 1 pick for the Fever, while Reese was selected 7th by the Chicago Sky. Despite their rivalry, the players showed no tension and even posed for pictures, recognized as the rising stars of the league.
The real action was yet to come as exciting matchups awaited them in the following months.
4. Pro Debut: Reese vs. Clark – (June 1, 2024)
The WNBA season started in May, but fans had to wait until June for the highly anticipated matchup between the rookie stars. The Indiana Fever faced off against the Windy City in a nail-biting game that ended 71-70 in favor of the Fever. Both players showcased their skills, with Clark contributing 11 points and 8 assists, and Reese impressing with 8 points and 13 rebounds.
The game’s defining moment came in a heated exchange between Chennedy Carter and Caitlin Clark, adding drama to the already intense rivalry. Despite the tension, the showdown ended in favor of Clark and the Fever.
3. Reese Seeks Revenge – (June 15, 2024)
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Just weeks after their first matchup, the Fever and Sky faced off again. Despite Reese’s determination for revenge, the Sky fell short once more, leaving fans disappointed.
The Chicago Sky faced another defeat, with Clark leading the Fever to a 91-83 victory. Reese improved her performance but couldn’t change the outcome, leaving her quest for revenge unfulfilled.
2. Reese’s Comeback, Clark’s Setback – (June 23, 2024)
In their third matchup of the month, Reese and Clark clashed once more, with the Sky securing a narrow 88-87 victory. Reese shone with 25 points and 16 rebounds, outperforming Clark’s 17 points. Despite the intense rivalry, both players found themselves on the same team during the All-Star game.
The rivalry between Reese and Clark reached its peak during March Madness, setting the stage for their future clashes in the WNBA.
1. March Madness: College Rivalry Final Showdown – (April 1, 2024)
In the Elite Eight of the NCAA tournament, Caitlin Clark led Iowa to a dominant 94-87 victory over Angel Reese’s LSU, avenging their previous defeat. Clark’s stellar performance with 41 points overshadowed Reese’s solid play, solidifying her victory.
While the rivalry between Reese and Clark captivated fans in 2024, their seasons ended differently. Reese’s season was cut short by injury, while Clark earned Rookie of the Year honors. The question remains: what will the future hold for this intense rivalry in 2025?
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