Caitlin Clark got the better of Angel Reese as Indiana Fever beat Chicago Sky in a thrilling WNBA encounter which saw the big name rookie duo back on court together

Caitlin Clark has shared her theory on why her rivalry with Angel Reese continues to capture the imaginations of basketball fans.

After sharing some iconic moments on the court together during their college careers, the storyline has carried into the WNBA. Clark got one over on Reese in their latest matchup, scoring 23 points while registering nine assists and eight rebounds as Indiana Fever beat Chicago Sky 91-83.

Reese was heavily involved for the Sky, scoring 11 points and having 13 rebounds with another dominant display in the paint. She was called for a flagrant foul after hitting Clark in the head while attempting to block a shot, sending the former Iowa standout to the free-throw line.

The latest contest between the pair was another enthralling encounter. After the game, Clark was asked why viewers are drawn to her and Reese and gave a typically measured theory on their passion for the game resonating with fans.

Clark told the media after the game: “I think it’s just the emotion and the passion that we play with. I think people love to see that, and I think that’s maybe not something that was always appreciated in women’s sports, and it should be.

“That’s what makes it fun. We’re competitors. That’s the way the game should be. It’s going to get a little feisty, it’s going to get physical, but at the end of the day both teams are just trying to win.

“I mean, I think what she’s done with her platform has been absolutely incredible, and she has an entire fanbase that has supported her and what she did at Maryland and then LSU.

“Obviously I’ve played her for a very long time and she’s been a tremendous player, so it’s been fun getting to compete against and I think it’s been really good for the game.

“People love seeing great matchups but also, at the same time, people tune in for these matchups and get to see how amazing these teams are and then they find new players to support and continue to come back for them, too. I think that’s another benefit of it, honestly.”