Because of their intense rivalry going back to their college days, many fans and the media have pushed the idea that Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese do not get along. A recent moment during Team USA’s latest game, however, suggests there may not be any real bad blood between the two young stars.
Team USA began its campaign at the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament in Puerto Rico on Mar. 11. Late in the fourth quarter of their opening-game against Senegal, Clark was seen jogging toward Reese during her trip to the free-throw line. After Reese knocked down her first attempt, Clark quickly gave her a high five before she took the second shot.
The brief interaction caught the attention of fans who pointed out that the moment seemed to show chemistry between the two. Many felt it challenged the long-running narrative that the players dislike each other.
“I’m not a AR fan but Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are showing how they’re professionals on the court who put basketball first. Caitlin Clark will always be a true class act (just as Aliyah Boston and others in the league) as she has been from day 1 in the league,” @CanandaLiv77658 said.
“Because there is no actual beef between them as people ….our fan bases, make the beef ourselves😂💀 they just competitive athletes at the end of the day and now they are teammates👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏,” @Sailor1476 wrote.
“Also Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are showing that you don’t have to be best friends or even friends at all to make things work. It’s about professionalism, class, and respect for your teammates,” @CanandaLiv77658 said.
“Peace treaty throughout the tournament , we can continue the unnecessary shenanigans in WNBA,” @xbotmi said.
“As I said in another comment… As a fan you love to see shit like this! ❤️💪,” @Mech_Transit wrote.
“They are teammates now and bonding,” @BruceYoung80 said.
Both players contributed to Team USA’s dominant start in San Juan. Caitlin Clark came off the bench and recorded a 17-point, 12-assist double-double. Whereas, Reese added six points and eight rebounds as Team USA cruised to a 110-46 victory.
Caitlin Clark expresses emotions following senior national team debut
Caitlin Clark is among several players on the current Team USA roster making their senior national team debut. Even though the United States entered the tournament with the strongest lineup and had already secured qualification for the World Cup, Clark admitted she felt some nerves before the campaign began.
“I know the day of the game I’m going to be hyped up,” Clark said. “Probably a little anxious, but in a good way.”
However, those nerves did not slow her down. Clark delivered a double-double as the Americans cruised to a 64-point blowout win over their African opponent.
“I’m just thankful,” Clark said after the clash against Senegal. “Any time you get to put this jersey on, it’s a little different.”
Caitlin Clark and co. will continue their run in San Juan when they face the host nation, Puerto Rico, on Mar. 12.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
