Angel Reese gave his thoughts and shared his thoughts on Caitlin Clark being named Time Magazine's "Athlete of the Year", expressing disappointment in the decision. (PO)

Angel Reese Expresses Disappointment Over Caitlin Clark Winning Time’s Athlete of the Year Title

Angel Reese, a prominent figure in women’s basketball, recently voiced her disappointment over Caitlin Clark being named Time Magazine’s “Athlete of the Year.” While Reese acknowledged Clark’s accomplishments, she expressed that the recognition felt “disrespectful” not only to her but also to all the other women who have worked hard to grow the game of women’s basketball.

Reese’s Reaction to Clark’s Recognition

Reese, who has been an instrumental player in women’s basketball, believes that the success of the WNBA and women’s sports, in general, is not attributable to one individual. “It’s just not Caitlin Clark, it’s Reece,” she said. Reese’s remarks emphasize the collective effort of various athletes who have worked tirelessly to elevate the game, stating that the recognition should have been more inclusive of all players who have had a significant impact.

Reese’s feelings reflect the broader conversation about recognition and representation in women’s sports, as athletes like herself believe their contributions often go unrecognized despite their significant roles in advancing the sport.

Caitlin Clark’s Impressive Year

Despite Reese’s sentiments, Caitlin Clark’s rise in the world of women’s basketball is undeniable. The 22-year-old Indiana Fever star has had a historic year, with exceptional achievements that contributed to the growing popularity of women’s basketball. Clark led the WNBA in assists and three-pointers, setting a new single-season assist record, and was instrumental in increasing viewership and attendance for both the WNBA and women’s college basketball.

Her performance in her debut season not only earned her Rookie of the Year honors but also secured her a spot on the All-WNBA first team. Her games broke viewership records, and her presence was a major factor in boosting attendance across the league. The “Caitlin Clark effect” is now widely recognized, with her impact on women’s sports extending far beyond the basketball court.

Clark’s achievements have also made her a commercial powerhouse. With endorsement deals from major brands like Nike and State Farm, she recently debuted on Sportico’s list of the highest-paid female athletes, earning $11.1 million, much of which comes from endorsements. Her WNBA salary, at $100,000, is only a small portion of her total earnings.

Clark’s Personal Reflections

When asked to define her year, Caitlin Clark used the word “historic” to describe her journey. She reflected on how her journey in women’s sports helped attract fans who had never watched women’s basketball before. Clark also expressed her surprise at the controversies surrounding her rise, stating, “I feel like the most controversial person. But I am not. It’s just because of all the storylines that surround me.” Her down-to-earth response highlights her genuine approach to the spotlight, maintaining that she treats everyone with kindness and respect.

Angel Reese’s Next Move: Training to Compete at the Highest Level

While Reese may feel disrespected by Clark’s recognition, she is not letting it derail her ambitions. After an abrupt end to her rookie season due to a wrist injury, Reese is determined to come back stronger than ever. She has teamed up with renowned trainer David Alexander, known for working with sports icons like LeBron James, to elevate her game and challenge herself to become better than ever before, even aspiring to surpass Clark’s achievements.

Reese’s training is part of her preparation for the groundbreaking 3×3 women’s basketball league, Unrivaled, which is set to launch in January 2025. This league, co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, will feature 34 of the best women’s basketball players globally, offering Reese not only financial rewards but also valuable opportunities to compete at the highest level. The league will allow her to earn significantly more than her WNBA salary, which averages just over $81,000 per year.

Reese’s Focus and Dedication

Reese’s decision to train with David Alexander signals her determination to take her career to the next level. She is dedicated to refining her skills and improving her game, motivated by the desire to dominate in the sport. Reese’s commitment to her growth is evident as she prepares for the upcoming season, with the Unrivaled League offering a platform for both competitive play and substantial financial gain.

Beyond her on-court training, Reese is also making time for a break, recently traveling to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where she explored the desert, attended the F1 Grand Prix, and shared highlights of her trip with fans. Reese’s balance between relaxation and intense preparation shows her focus on growth both personally and professionally.

A New Chapter in Reese’s Career

As Reese prepares for the next phase of her career, she is showing her dedication to not only improving her own game but also challenging the best in women’s basketball, including Caitlin Clark. Reese’s journey is a testament to her resilience, talent, and focus, as she continues to aim higher and strive for excellence.

Whether on the court or off, Reese’s drive to succeed makes it clear that she’s not just focused on surpassing Clark but also on continuing to raise the bar for women’s basketball and contributing to the ongoing evolution of the sport.