Angel Reese has rapidly become one of the most recognizable faces in the WNBA, known for her tenacity, confidence, and elite rebounding skills. Yet despite her undeniable talent and growing accomplishments, the criticism hasn’t stopped of the Chicago Sky star.
The latest jab comes from veteran journalist Christine Brennan, who in promoting her new book about Caitlin Clark, seemed to downplay Reese’s significance in the league.
Speaking on ESPN LA, Brennan dismissed the idea that Reese plays a major role in driving WNBA viewership. “The TV viewership is all about Caitlin Clark, not Angel and Caitlin. Just Caitlin.
“I think Angel is a great rebounder and excellent at what she does, but she doesn’t move the needle when it comes to ratings. Caitlin does,” Brennan said.
The comment sparked immediate reaction, as it reignited debates over the dynamics of the Reese-Clark rivalry and what each player represents within the league’s broader marketing and media coverage.
Caitlin Clark gets credit, Angel Reese gets critique
This isn’t the first time Reese has been painted in the shadow of Clark. Their NCAA rivalry carried over into the WNBA, where their matchups have drawn record-breaking audiences.
But while Clark is often praised for her clean-cut image and historic shooting performances, Reese frequently finds herself criticized – despite having broken the WNBA’s rookie rebounding record and earning All-Star honors in her debut season.
Brennan’s stance underscores the wider media trend of framing Clark as the primary force behind the WNBA’s recent rise in popularity.
That framing, while based on metrics like TV ratings and ticket sales, risks ignoring the complementary role players like Reese have had in creating high-intensity, must-watch games.
Reese, to her credit, has handled the scrutiny with poise. She’s openly acknowledged the pressure that comes with being both a fan favorite and a lightning rod.
“I know I’m helping bring attention, whether they love me or hate me,” she’s stated in past interviews. And there’s truth to that: it’s the rivalry, the contrast in styles, and the drama that has captured national attention – not just one name alone.
Reese’s impact bigger than box score
While Brennan argues that Reese isn’t the one driving viewership, others have pointed out that the increased attention to the league is due to a convergence of stars, not a solo effort.
Reese’s outspoken personality, unapologetic demeanor, and on-court dominance have made her a central figure in the league’s cultural narrative.
Off the court, she’s become a fashion icon, a role model, and a conversation starter. On the court, she’s become a double-double machine, anchoring the Chicago Sky with a veteran-like presence. Those contributions, while perhaps harder to quantify than television ratings, are vital to the league’s growth.
Still, Reese remains in the crosshairs of public and media judgment. Brennan’s comments may reflect a larger issue in how female athletes are positioned – where personality, media narratives, and perceived marketability often override performance and merit.
With another clash between Reese’s Sky and Clark’s Fever set for later this summer, the spotlight is guaranteed to return. And Reese, as always, will meet it head-on.
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