Shaquille O’Neal, one of the most dominant figures in basketball history, has recently made headlines with his take on the ongoing debate between two rising stars in the women’s basketball world: Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. While O’Neal has long been known for his larger-than-life personality and vocal opinions, his recent statements reveal his admiration for both players while also making it clear that he’s firmly in the corner of Angel Reese.

In a recent interview, O’Neal shared his thoughts on the remarkable talents of both Reese and Clark, but his endorsement of Reese was unmistakable. He acknowledged the outstanding performance of Caitlin Clark, particularly her leadership role with the Indiana Fever, where she has become an instrumental force in the team’s success. Clark, known for her incredible shooting ability and court vision, helped lead the Fever to the playoffs, showcasing the kind of leadership and poise that has made her one of the most exciting players in the women’s game. O’Neal had nothing but praise for Clark’s impact on the court and her ability to elevate her team to new heights.

However, despite his respect for Clark’s achievements, O’Neal made it abundantly clear that his allegiance lies with Angel Reese. He took the opportunity to highlight Reese’s exceptional accomplishments both at the collegiate level and in her early WNBA career. O’Neal pointed to Reese’s NCAA championship with LSU as a defining moment in her career, emphasizing the significance of her leadership in securing the title for her team. It wasn’t just the championship, though, that impressed O’Neal – it was also Reese’s rapid transition to the professional ranks that caught his eye.

As a rookie with the Chicago Sky, Reese made an immediate impact in the league. Despite the challenges that come with transitioning from college to the pros, Reese showcased her immense potential by averaging a double-double, an impressive feat for a first-year player. Her ability to dominate both offensively and defensively established her as one of the brightest young stars in the WNBA. However, Reese’s rookie season was unfortunately cut short due to an injury, which prevented her from fully realizing her potential in her first year. Nevertheless, O’Neal remains undeterred by the setback, maintaining that Reese’s impact on the game is undeniable and that she’s only going to get better as her career progresses.

The Rookie of the Year race between Reese and Clark has been one of the most exciting storylines in women’s basketball, with both players putting up impressive numbers and making their presence felt on the court. While Clark has certainly had a remarkable season with the Fever, leading them to the playoffs and continuing to shine as one of the league’s top performers, it’s clear that O’Neal sees Reese as the player with the most potential to shape the future of the league. His unwavering support for Reese, despite the challenges and obstacles she faced in her rookie campaign, speaks to his belief in her talent and the bright future he envisions for her in the WNBA.

O’Neal’s comments reflect a broader trend in the growing popularity of women’s basketball, as players like Reese and Clark continue to captivate fans with their skill, determination, and competitive spirit. The WNBA, which has seen an increase in visibility and support in recent years, is poised for even greater growth as more players like Reese and Clark enter the league and make their mark. Both players have played a crucial role in elevating the women’s game to new heights, showcasing the incredible talent and athleticism that exists within the sport.

While the debate between Reese and Clark may continue to fuel passionate discussions among fans and analysts alike, one thing is certain: both players have already made a significant impact on the game, and their futures in the WNBA look incredibly bright. Shaquille O’Neal’s endorsement of Angel Reese serves as a testament to the excitement surrounding her potential, and it’s clear that he believes she is one of the most promising young talents in women’s basketball today.

In the end, the rivalry between Reese and Clark, whether friendly or competitive, only serves to elevate the game as a whole. The ongoing battle for Rookie of the Year honors is just one chapter in what promises to be an exciting and dynamic career for both players. As the women’s game continues to grow in prominence, players like Reese and Clark will undoubtedly be at the forefront of that evolution, inspiring future generations of athletes and basketball fans alike.

Shaquille O’Neal’s support for Angel Reese is not just about picking a favorite in the Rookie of the Year race; it’s about recognizing the incredible talent and potential that Reese brings to the WNBA. In his eyes, she is the future of women’s basketball, and with her talent, work ethic, and passion for the game, she’s more than capable of leading the charge for the next generation of players.

Both players have elevated the women’s game, and the Rookie of the Year race is heating up. But in Shaq’s eyes, Reese leads the charge. 💪🏀