Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark has finally addressed the controversial moment she had with Chicago Sky star forward Angel Reese.
The Fever and Sky’s first meeting of the 2024 season, back in June, was filled with controversy after Chennedy Carter hip-checked Clark while the rookie guard was looking away. What made the incident look worse was the fact that Reese was seen cheering right after the hit to the Indiana playmaker.
Reese was heavily criticized for her gesture, which only further fueled the narrative she doesn’t like Clark and that there’s bad blood between them.
However, not only did Clark shoot down that negative buzz surrounding them, but she also defended Reese’s reaction to the cheap shot on her.
In an interview with TIME after she was hailed Athlete of the Year, the former Iowa Hawkeyes star opened up about Carter’s hit and Reese’s cheering gesture, noting that she didn’t see it.
“I never thought I was being targeted,” Clark said of Carter’s hip-check. “Obviously, that shouldn’t ever happen within a game. But basketball is physical. Your emotions can get the best of you. My emotions have gotten the best of me many times.”
Talking about Reese’s reaction, she added, “I don’t even know if she really knew what happened. Honestly, I don’t think she was cheering because somebody hit me. I really don’t think that would be the case. I hope not.”
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) looks to pass the ball against the Las Vegas Aces.
For what it’s worth, Caitlin Clark also emphasized that she doesn’t have a close relationship with Angel Reese. However, they are “very respectful of one another.”
Reese said the same thing in September during an episode of her “Unapologetically Angel” podcast, sharing (via Today), “I don’t believe in her heart that she has hatred towards me and I’m sure she believes that I don’t have hatred towards her.”
Talk of their rivalry is unlikely to end any time soon. The good thing, though, is that they have made it clear it’s all just part of the competition and nothing more.”
