WNBA Commissioner Sends Blunt Message on Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Rivalry

In the wake of growing buzz surrounding the rivalry between college basketball stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has weighed in with a direct and candid message. The heated rivalry, which gained national attention after the 2023 NCAA Women’s Championship game, has sparked debates among fans and analysts about its impact on the sport.

Engelbert, addressing the situation, emphasized that while rivalries are healthy and can fuel fan engagement, it’s important to keep the focus on the players’ immense talent and the bigger picture of advancing women’s basketball. “We welcome competitive rivalries in sports, but let’s not lose sight of the incredible skills and potential these athletes bring to the game,” Engelbert said. “Both Caitlin and Angel are exceptional talents who will elevate the WNBA and the future of women’s basketball.”

The commissioner’s comments come amid mounting speculation about both Clark and Reese potentially joining the WNBA in the near future. While the rivalry has drawn attention, Engelbert made it clear that the league is about more than just individual matchups — it’s about the continued growth and success of women’s basketball as a whole.

As the WNBA looks to attract more top talent from the college ranks, Engelbert’s message is a reminder that while rivalries can ignite interest, the long-term focus remains on building a stronger, more competitive league for all athletes.