Angel Reese has a national championship and is now headed to the WNBA Finals. Is it time to reconsider the debate with Caitlin Clark?
For years, Caitlin Clark has been considered the face of women’s basketball, while Angel Reese has constantly been criticized and compared to the Indiana Fever superstar.
But at what point do we start giving Reese the respect she deserves?
Let’s look at the facts.
Reese defeated Clark and Iowa in the 2023 national championship game, bringing LSU its first women’s basketball national title. Now, just a few years later, Reese is preparing to compete for a WNBA championship with the Atlanta Dream.
Meanwhile, Clark and the Indiana Fever are watching the Finals from home after another disappointing playoff exit.
And Reese isn’t just along for the ride.
The 24-year-old has been absolutely dominant this season, winning Defensive Player of the Year honors while establishing herself as one of the league’s most intimidating rebounders.
In Atlanta’s series-clinching victory over the New York Liberty, Reese delivered 22 points and nine rebounds, helping the Dream complete a stunning three-game sweep.
Clark might be the more explosive offensive player, and her ability to shoot and create opportunities for teammates is undeniable.
But basketball is about more than scoring and highlight reels.
Reese brings elite rebounding, defensive intensity, leadership, and a championship mentality that has translated into winning at multiple levels.
Now, she has an opportunity to accomplish something Clark hasn’t: win a WNBA championship.
Of course, winning is a team accomplishment, and Clark’s individual talent shouldn’t be dismissed because Indiana fell short.
But if Reese adds a WNBA championship to her national championship résumé, how much longer can people pretend this debate is completely one-sided?
Maybe the conversation isn’t over just yet.
But Angel Reese is making it a whole lot more interesting.
