JUST NOW: WNBA Commissioner Sends shocking message on Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Rivalry depart
Since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick, Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark has made a significant impact on the WNBA. Her presence has led to record-breaking attendance and viewership, attracting many new fans to the league. Meanwhile, her former college rival, Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese, has established herself as a star as well. From the beginning, their fanbases have been notably contentious. With both players competing for the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year, the rivalry has occasionally escalated beyond healthy competition, especially in the form of trash talk. During a September 9 appearance on CNBC’s “Lunch Hour,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert was asked how she handles the increasing focus on misogynistic and racist comments from fans. Rather than condemning such polarizing behavior, Engelbert acknowledged that, ultimately, these rivalries benefit the league’s business.
WNBA Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert on the toxicity that’s spawned from the Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese rivalry. Seems to me the WNBA media who keeps chastising the fans, is running counter to what the commissioner wants. Let me know what you think. #WNBA #feverrising
Full… pic.twitter.com/N67HN0n6Vn
— Ken Swift (@kenswift) September 9, 2024
Engelbert emphasized the importance of rivalries in sports, saying, “The one thing I know about sports, you need rivalry. That’s what draws people in. They want to see meaningful games between rivals, not everyone getting along.” She likened the competition between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark to the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson when they entered the NBA in 1979. “Both came from a huge college rivalry, one white, one black. We’re seeing a similar moment now.” While noting that social media didn’t exist during Bird and Johnson’s time, Engelbert shared the advice she gives to players like Clark and Reese when facing negative comments: “I always tell them, if you wouldn’t take advice from someone, ignore what they type.” She also highlighted the WNBA’s financial growth since the arrival of these two players. “Marketing dollars and corporate sponsorships are increasing because brands recognize the value in diverse women representing them,” Engelbert explained.