Angel Reese Addresses RGIII’s Claims of Animosity Toward Caitlin Clark
The WNBA’s popularity has surged over the past two seasons, largely fueled by the electrifying rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. Recent claims by former NFL player Robert Griffin III have stirred controversy, suggesting genuine bad blood between the two stars. However, Reese and her mother swiftly refuted these allegations, highlighting the strength of their bond and the fabricated nature of the drama. This article dives into the controversy, the players’ stats, and the impact of their rivalry on the league.
RGIII’s Allegations and Reese’s Response
On July 10, 2025, Robert Griffin III, now a sports media analyst, claimed on social media that individuals in Angel Reese’s inner circle informed him that she “hates” Caitlin Clark. He attributed this alleged animosity to relentless media comparisons and constant questions about Clark surrounding Reese. The Chicago Sky forward quickly fired back on social media, dismissing the claims as baseless and accusing Griffin of seeking clout:
Lying on this app when everybody know the first and last name of everybody in my circle for clout is nastyyyy work.
Reese’s mother echoed her daughter’s sentiments, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of Reese’s circle and questioning the credibility of Griffin’s sources:
Man, stop with the 🧢. My daughter’s “circle” is so small & tight so I’d be interested 2 know who called U. Whomever U say “called” U is not in her circle 2 speak on her feelings towards a media/fandom made up beef. Just stay on that side bc the doors are closed over here.
These responses underline the Reese family’s frustration with what they perceive as fabricated narratives designed to amplify drama for attention.
The Clark-Reese Rivalry: On-Court Fire, Off-Court Narrative
The rivalry between Caitlin Clark (Indiana Fever) and Angel Reese (Chicago Sky) has been a cornerstone of the WNBA’s recent surge in popularity. Their on-court battles are intense, with a notable incident on May 17, 2025, when Clark was assessed a flagrant foul for hard contact on Reese during a heated game. This moment added fuel to a rivalry that has captivated fans and driven viewership.
Statistically, both players are standout performers:
- Caitlin Clark: 17.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 8.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 38.6% FG
- Angel Reese: 13.3 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 42.4% FG
Clark’s playmaking and scoring prowess contrast with Reese’s rebounding dominance and efficiency, making their matchups must-watch events. While Reese has faced criticism for perceived media bias favoring Clark, she has leaned into the “villain” role, embracing the competitive narrative. This dynamic, absent in today’s NBA, has drawn fans to the WNBA, boosting its cultural relevance.
The Bigger Picture: Rivalry Fuels Growth
The Clark-Reese rivalry, whether fueled by genuine tension or media-driven narratives, is undeniably beneficial for the WNBA. Their contrasting styles and competitive fire create compelling storylines that transcend the court. Reese’s rebuttal to Griffin’s claims suggests she’s aware of the media’s role in amplifying their rivalry but rejects personal animosity as the driving force. Instead, she focuses on her performance and the tight-knit support of her inner circle.
Griffin’s allegations, while sparking debate, lack substantiation, as Reese’s mother emphasized the exclusivity of her daughter’s circle. The controversy underscores how external narratives can exaggerate on-court rivalries, yet it also highlights the players’ ability to set the record straight through social media. For now, the focus remains on their next matchup, which promises more fireworks and further cements their rivalry as a driving force behind the WNBA’s meteoric rise.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 WNBA season progresses, expect the Clark-Reese saga to continue captivating audiences. Their competitive spirit, combined with off-court narratives, ensures the league remains in the spotlight. For more on the WNBA schedule and upcoming games, visit WNBA games today.
