The drama on the WNBA court took an electrifying turn as Angel Reese donned her ‘Joker’ cleats, stepping into the role of a villain once more. The double-double queen, who has already set franchise records, snagged her seventh double-double against Caitlin Clark’s Indiana Fever. But it wasn’t just rebounds and points that Reese collected—fouls came in abundance, particularly over her NCAA rival. While Indiana fans didn’t voice complaints about the officiating, the post-game comments sparked a flurry of reactions.

Caitlin Clark, always composed, had high praise for Reese during the postgame press conference. “I think what she’s (Reese) done with her platform has been absolutely incredible,” Clark said. “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. It’s been fun getting to compete against.”

The much-anticipated rematch between these superstars didn’t disappoint. The game was a nail-biter, with the lead never extending beyond seven points. It echoed their first WNBA clash where Chennedy Carter’s hip-check on Clark went uncalled until after the game. This time, it was Reese’s five fouls and a flagrant 1 for clotheslining Clark that grabbed headlines.

Clark emphasized the importance of these intense matchups for the league’s growth. She pointed out that fans coming to see the rookies often return to watch other teams, thereby growing the sport. She also defended Reese, saying she was simply going for the ball. However, Reese’s remarks post-game stirred controversy among Fever fans.

Fans rallied behind Clark’s poised response, contrasting it with Reese’s critique of the officiating. Reese’s comment, “I guess some people got a special whistle,” and her snarky remark about Clark didn’t sit well with many. One fan highlighted this disparity, noting, “All Caitlin does is defend Angel, and all Angel does is attack Caitlin.”

The criticisms continued on social media. A witty commentator jabbed, “Someone paid attention in her ‘How to interact with the media’ classes at college. Too bad Angel didn’t do the same.” Another fan praised Clark’s diplomatic response, remarking on the maturity difference between the two players. They concluded, “Both are great players…but only one has the sense and maturity level necessary for long-term success.”

Some fans observed that Reese often fails to show respect towards Clark, recalling Reese’s emotional reaction after losing to Clark in the Elite Eight matchup. “Angel has had several opportunities to show the same respect, but it’s clear her moral compass is off-center,” one follower stated.

Despite the swirling opinions, one question lingered: Why do Reese’s fans dislike Clark when she has never spoken ill of Reese? “Caitlin Clark has NEVER said anything negative about her or others & always shown respect to her game,” a fan questioned.

The WNBA is weaving a tapestry of stories this season—some shining with positivity, others tinged with rivalry and jealousy. Among them is the burgeoning feud between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Whether this will develop into a legendary rivalry remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly captured the fans’ imagination. As Clark wisely says, “It is what it is.”