Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever was named WNBA Rookie of the Year, capping off an impressive debut season. Clark set multiple records, including the WNBA’s single-season assist record, single-game assist record, rookie scoring record, and rookie 3-point record.
Clark’s achievement came hours before the Fever’s playoff game against the Connecticut Sun. Her rookie rival, Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, received a fourth-place vote in the MVP race but didn’t surpass Clark for top rookie honors.
Following the award announcement, Reese posted a message on social media without directly referencing Clark or the vote. Previously, Clark downplayed the supposed rivalry between them, stating it’s merely a media narrative.
Reese echoed Clark’s sentiments, emphasizing that their on-court intensity stems from competitiveness, not personal animosity. “It’s not personal,” Reese clarified. “We’re just super competitive.” She wishes fans understood that once the game ends, they can coexist amicably.
The Clark-Reese rivalry has captivated fans, but both players insist it’s exaggerated. They view each other as competitors, not enemies. Their intensity on the court fuels the excitement, but off the court, they’ve dispelled any notion of hatred or ill will.
