The 2025 WNBA season started with more than just basketball. Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese — two of the most hyped rookies in recent memory — faced off in their pro debuts, potentially setting up one of the biggest rivalries in women’s sports.
It’s more than just physical play on the court. It’s a shift in how the WNBA is perceived, talked about and marketed. The rivalry that started in college has now moved to the pros.
From College Icons to Pro Stars
The roots of this rivalry go back to April 2023 during the NCAA national championship game.
Reese, LSU’s outspoken forward, had a dominant performance in a 102-85 win over Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes. Reese celebrated by making a “you can’t see me” gesture towards Clark and pointing to her ring finger as time expired. The celebration sparked a debate that went beyond basketball talk.
By spring 2024, Clark and Iowa had responded by beating Reese and LSU in a rematch that drew 12.3 million viewers, one of the most-watched college basketball games regardless of gender.
It was more than just the final score. Both players became generational talents competing not only for wins but for recognition in a sport that hasn’t always gotten equal attention.
Pro Debuts: A Rivalry Renewed in the WNBA
May 17, 2025. Indiana, one of the favorites in the WNBA championship odds, hosted Chicago. The league saw the opportunity and scheduled the game early in the season. The game delivered.
With just under five minutes left in the third quarter, Clark committed a hard foul on Reese while trying to block a shot. The contact knocked Reese to the floor. Reese got up quickly and went towards Clark before Indiana’s Aliyah Boston intervened to separate them.
After reviewing the play, officials ruled:
- Clark got a Flagrant 1
- Reese and Boston got technicals
Clark downplayed the play after the game.
“Let’s not make it something it’s not,” Clark said. “It was a good play on the basketball… I wasn’t trying to do anything malicious.”
Reese didn’t comment on the situation but her reaction on the court said it all. No apology was given from either side.## The Numbers Say It All: Clark vs. Reese = Must-See TV
Indiana beat Chicago 93-58 but the score is secondary to the story.
The ratings tell the real story: 2.5 million viewers watched the ESPN broadcast, with 3.1 million tuning in at peak. It’s the most-watched WNBA game ever on ESPN.
That’s the impact of the rivalry.
Clark is the focal point of what many call “The Caitlin Clark Effect,” bringing new fans and media attention wherever she plays. Reese is the natural counter with her confidence, defensive skills and personality. Together they’ve created something the women’s game hasn’t had consistently: appointment viewing.
The league seems to recognize this. Like Magic and Bird in the 80s, the Clark-Reese matchup could become the key to the WNBA’s growth.
Not Just Hype: The Social Impact
While the rivalry excites fans, concerns have arisen. After the May 17 game, reports surfaced of fans directing inappropriate comments towards Reese. The WNBA has launched an investigation.
Clark addressed the situation directly.
“There’s no place for that in our game, there’s no place for that in society,” Clark said.
“Certainly we want every person who comes into our arena – whether player or fan – to have a great experience. I appreciate the league doing that investigation.”
Boston also commented on the situation.
“As a player, you have to call it out if something happens. Fans need to understand — cheer, yell, get passionate. But always lead with respect,” Boston said.
Reese has not made public comments on the investigation but support from opponents suggests an important distinction: the rivalry is intense but not personal. When done right, this competition can elevate the entire sport.
Clark, Reese and the Future of the WNBA
What makes this rivalry special goes beyond ratings or on-court incidents.
Clark represents a certain style: precise shooting, especially from deep, and a player who has brought new fans who see women’s basketball as a top sport.
Reese embodies a different approach: emotional, physical and defensively dominant. She brings confidence and intensity to every game.
Together they represent a changing landscape in women’s basketball.
Their rivalry has already produced:
- Record ratings
- Increased attendance
- Higher merchandise sales
- More media coverage* More women in sports
The long-term effects are to be determined but so far so good.
Next Time: When Do They Play?
Fans are already looking forward to the next Indiana-Chicago game. Every interaction between Clark and Reese will be scrutinized.
The matchup has created interest beyond team loyalty, drawing viewers who just like great competition.
It’s based more on basketball than personal dislike which makes it more sustainable.
Conclusion
In a league that wants to be more mainstream, Clark and Reese have timed their arrival perfectly.
They’re more than just athletic talent. They’re marketable, have distinct personalities and different styles.
As the WNBA gets more visibility the contrast between Clark and Reese shows you can have different styles and personalities and still drive interest in the league.
