Rivalries have always drawn attention to the league and filled arenas, but they often bring something far darker for the players involved: hatred.

Angel Reese spoke openly about this during an episode of her show, Unapologetically Angel, stating, “So I think it’s really just the fans — her fans, the Iowa fans, now the Indiana fans — that are, like, they ride for her and I respect that, respectfully, but sometimes it’s very disrespectful.”

Despite facing Caitlin Clark only twice during their collegiate careers, Reese has endured heavy criticism, with the rivalry escalating to unprecedented levels after both players were drafted into the WNBA. The negativity directed at Reese has taken an alarming turn. She has received death threats, been stalked at her home, and even seen AI-generated fake nude photos of her being circulated, some of which were sent to her close family.

While Reese initially placed much of the blame on Clark’s fans, her perspective has shifted in recent times.

In a recent episode of Complex, Reese admitted, “I don’t think it’s just her fans. I think it’s fans in general.” For her, better known as the Bayou Barbie, the rivalry with Clark may be new, but their competition goes back years.

“It’s been competition since college, being able to play against Caitlin. I’ve been playing against Caitlin since we were probably in eighth or ninth grade,” she shared, highlighting the deep roots of their rivalry. Reese’s reflection underscored the longevity of their competitive journey, which began during their Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) days. A Maryland native, Reese represented Maryland, while Clark honed her skills in Iowa. But when did it all take a toxic turn?

So, it was not until healthy competition the two transitioned to college basketball.

Though Reese and Clark only faced each other twice in their collegiate careers, those matchups were enough for fans to form polarizing perspectives. The most infamous encounter came during the National Championship game between LSU and Iowa. Reese drew significant attention by making two bold gestures on the court: the “You can’t see me” hand wave and pointing to her ring finger, all while Clark stood just steps away.

After LSU defeated Clark-led Iowa, fans were quick to criticize Reese for her perceived trash-talking. However, Clark, who had made the same “You can’t see me” gesture earlier in the tournament, dismissed the criticism. “I don’t think Angel should be criticized at all,” Clark told ESPN, diffusing some of the tension.

Despite this narrative, the rivalry once again drew heavy scrutiny ahead of their 2024 Elite Eight rematch. In a post-game interview with ESPN, Reese clarified the nature of their relationship: “I don’t think people realize it’s not personal. I think people just take it like we hate each other. Me and Caitlin Clark don’t hate each other. I want everybody to understand that.”

Since being drafted into the WNBA, Reese and Clark have not only brought immense attention to the league but also weathered intense criticism. Despite all the trash-talking and controversies, the two have consistently supported each other while proving themselves on the court.

Clark has shattered records with her scoring, three-pointers, and assists, leading the league with an impressive 8.4 assists per game. Meanwhile, Reese has earned her place as the “rebound queen” among rookies, averaging 13 rebounds per game and 13 points, cementing her own legacy.

Their rivalry continues to spark debates and draw eyes to the WNBA, proving that their impact transcends the court.