In two decades of watching NBA basketball, I’ve seen plenty of disrespectful moments from the media. For instance, Bradley Beal was snubbed from the 2020 All-Star team despite averaging 30 points per game. James Harden missed an All-NBA selection in 2016 after averaging 29 points and playing all 82 games. Then there’s the case of Damian Lillard being left off the NBA’s top 75 list in favor of Dwight Howard, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year. These instances reflect a level of disrespect that feels almost blasphemous.
Recently, the media’s behavior reached new lows when ESPN tweeted about the WNBA playoffs, asking which rookies were in contention for Rookie of the Year. The disrespect intensified when they placed Angel Reese ahead of Caitlyn Clark in the rankings. This is particularly outrageous considering Reese’s history of targeting Clark, including mocking her during the NCAA Championship with a taunting gesture and engaging in questionable behavior on the court during their subsequent matchups.
Their latest meeting was set against the backdrop of the WNBA playoffs and the first-ever Barbie-themed game hosted by the Chicago Sky. Reese, known for her “Shytown Barbie” persona, faced Clark in what was being touted as their final rookie showdown. Angel held a 4-1 advantage over Clark from college, but Caitlyn was leading in their professional matchups.
From the start of the game, Clark was focused and determined. Despite the Sky’s early scoring flurry, Caitlyn rallied her team, ultimately leading to a tight game by the first quarter’s end. She opened the second quarter with a logo three-pointer, showcasing her skills. In contrast, Reese struggled and turned the ball over, which set the tone for the rest of the game.
As the match progressed, it became increasingly clear that Clark was dominating. By the end of the third quarter, she had amassed 23 points and nine assists, while Reese managed only five points. The game highlighted Clark’s brilliance and Reese’s frustrations. In a desperate bid to stop Clark, the Sky resorted to cheap shots, but Caitlyn continued to shine, racking up impressive stats.
In a particularly embarrassing moment, Angel Reese stayed in the game despite her team trailing by 27 points, desperately trying to secure a double-double. Meanwhile, Clark enjoyed her time on the bench, laughing and celebrating with her teammates. Fans online mocked Reese for her stat-padding efforts, pointing out how she was still trying to chase numbers in a blowout game.
Ultimately, Caitlyn Clark finished with 31 points and 12 assists, while Reese ended with 10 points and 11 rebounds, most of which came in garbage time. This performance served as a humbling moment for Reese, especially given her previous trash talk directed at Clark. Caitlyn’s success not only highlighted her skills but also underscored the difference in professionalism between the two players.
This game represented more than just a matchup; it was a moment of reckoning for Reese, who had previously sought to undermine Clark. While Reese’s actions on the court hinted at her insecurity, Clark responded with grace and dominance, proving that true talent speaks louder than words.
In summary, Caitlyn Clark’s performance was a testament to her skills and sportsmanship, while Angel Reese’s desperate attempts to stay relevant only showcased her shortcomings. As Caitlyn continues to rise, Reese faces the reality of being overshadowed, serving as a reminder that respect in sports is earned, not demanded.
