In a match against the Dallas Wings at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese managed to elude the referees’ scrutiny, committing blatant violations on a fast break without consequence.
During the third quarter of the game, Reese intercepted a pass, securing an easy steal. However, her drive to the basket involved multiple infractions, including several double dribbles and a glaring travel, none of which were called by the officials. Reese’s unimpeded layup contributed to the Sky extending their lead to 57-35, their largest margin in the game. Ultimately, the Sky triumphed over the Wings with an 83-72 victory.
Reese’s performance in this game was among the best of her nascent career. The LSU alumna notched 16 points, shooting 7-for-13 from the field, and added 18 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals to her impressive stat line.
This leniency from the referees was unusual for Reese, who has had a rocky relationship with officiating in her brief WNBA career. In a previous game against the Indiana Fever, she was called for a flagrant foul after hitting Caitlin Clark in the head. Earlier in the month, Reese was ejected from a game for showing disrespect towards an official.
In other news, Caitlin Clark has downplayed any rivalry with Angel Reese despite the media’s portrayal. Clark, excited for another matchup with Reese and the Chicago Sky, expressed surprise that their upcoming game would not be held at the larger United Center, noting that it could attract more fans. Instead, the game will be at the smaller Wintrust Arena due to a scheduling conflict with a concert by rapper Russ.
Clark’s comments come as tickets for the game are priced at a premium, reflecting the high demand and growing interest in the WNBA, fueled partly by her performances. Clark’s impact on the league is undeniable, with her appearances consistently drawing large crowds, as seen in a recent game in Atlanta where 17,000 fans attended.
Despite dismissing the notion of a personal rivalry with Reese, Clark acknowledged that the heightened interest benefits the sport. She expressed willingness to contribute to the narrative if it helps elevate women’s basketball. Clark emphasized that the matchups against Reese and the Sky have been great basketball games, deserving of the attention they have received.
The history between Clark and Reese includes several contentious moments. In their first encounter on June 1, Clark was forcefully knocked to the ground by Chennedy Carter, which Reese celebrated from the bench. In a subsequent game, Reese was penalized for hitting Clark in the head while attempting to block a shot. Reese has suggested that Clark receives preferential treatment from referees.
Adding to the tension, Reese previously posted and then deleted a tweet perceived as a dig at Clark following the Sky’s win over the New York Liberty. Reese’s tweet implied that the Sky’s victory was not solely due to one star player, a veiled reference to the attention Clark has garnered since being drafted first overall by Indiana, while Reese was selected seventh by Chicago.
Clark’s appeal continues to grow, with her ability to attract and energize crowds evident in every game. Her debut in Atlanta saw enthusiastic support from fans, highlighting her status as a marquee player in the league. Clark thrives on the energy from the crowd, striving to perform at her best for the fans who come to see her play.
In summary, Angel Reese’s remarkable evasion of referee scrutiny during a recent game contrasts with her earlier contentious interactions with officials. Meanwhile, Caitlin Clark’s burgeoning influence and media-fueled rivalry with Reese are drawing significant attention to the WNBA, showcasing the sport’s growing popularity and the high level of competition among its rising stars.
