Former USA women’s soccer star Megan Rapinoe has weighed in on the debate over the top rookie in the WNBA, choosing between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, two standout stars from the league. This competition mirrors their college rivalry, with Clark hailing from Iowa and Reese from LSU. Rapinoe has expressed her belief that Clark, who currently leads the WNBA in assists, will clinch the Rookie of the Year award, even though Reese has set a new record for consecutive double-doubles this season.
Rapinoe said, “I have Caitlin. She’s leading in all the categories. Assists, turnovers, points—don’t roast her, come on. Don’t roast her, she’s fine… Angel is having an amazing season. Obviously, breaking the double-doubles.”
Despite any supposed rivalry, Reese and Clark showcased their camaraderie during Team WNBA’s 117-109 victory over Team USA at the WNBA All-Star Weekend. Their teamwork was a highlight, with Clark delivering one of her game-high 10 assists to Reese on a no-look pass that electrified the crowd.
Reese praised Clark’s playmaking abilities, saying, “It’s so cool, I know when she gets the ball I’m running looking for the ball because I know she’s gonna throw it. So, she’s been great to play with. I mean, the future — we’re going to be playing with each other a lot. Hopefully, in four years we’ll be Olympians together.”
Every matchup between Reese and Clark tends to draw significant viewership, although Clark has downplayed the notion of any animosity. Earlier this summer, she stated, “I’m pretty sure the only people that view this as a rivalry is all of you. Like, to us, it’s just a game of basketball.”
Reese echoed these sentiments, explaining that the perceived rivalry is more of a media creation and that their intense competition on the court doesn’t translate to personal animosity. She said, “For me, 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. It’s just a super competitive game. I just wish people would realize that. Once I get between those lines, there’s no friends. We’re not buddies. I’m going to talk trash to you. I’m going to do whatever it takes to get in your head the whole entire game, but after the game, we can kick it. I don’t think people really realize that.”
Clark also reflected on the media’s portrayal of their rivalry, expressing regret that the focus on their competitive dynamic overshadowed their teams’ achievements during their respective deep runs to the national championship game. She noted that it detracted from the recognition of her team’s stellar seasons under coach Lisa Bluder before both she and Reese entered the WNBA as first-round draft picks.
Rapinoe’s endorsement of Clark highlights the statistical prowess and leadership she has displayed in her rookie season, positioning her as a frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award. Meanwhile, Reese’s record-setting performances and consistent double-doubles demonstrate her significant impact on the court.
As both players continue to excel, their mutual respect and competitive spirit remain evident, fostering a healthy rivalry that enhances their performances and captivates fans. Their potential future together as Olympians further underscores the promising careers ahead for both athletes in the WNBA.
