Shaquille O’Neal, the basketball legend, recently sparked a debate by asserting that there is no comparison between LSU’s Angel Reese and Iowa’s Caitlin Clark in women’s college basketball.
O’Neal’s statement has certainly caught attention, particularly his endorsement of Reese as a better all-around player, especially in terms of shooting, attacking the basket, and rebounding. This comes amidst the ongoing public discussion about who holds the upper hand in the dynamic between these two rising stars in the sport.
O’Neal’s opinion on the matter is significant, not just because of his vast experience but also because he has followed both players closely, acknowledging their individual talents. In his comparison, he notes that Angel Reese is a more dangerous shooter, especially when it comes to mid-range and inside shots.
While Caitlin Clark is celebrated for her deep three-point shooting ability, O’Neal emphasizes that Reese’s shooting proficiency extends more broadly across various parts of the court, making her a more complete offensive player.
In addition to her shooting skills, O’Neal highlights Angel Reese’s versatility and dominance in other areas of the game. According to him, Reese is an aggressive and lethal weapon when driving to the basket. Her attacking prowess sets her apart, allowing her to score in tight spaces and under defensive pressure.
Reese’s physicality gives her an edge when finishing at the rim, whereas Clark, though an elite shooter and passer, primarily excels in long-range shots and playmaking. Reese’s offensive strategy is more multifaceted, giving her a dynamic edge in attacking the basket.
What makes O’Neal’s praise even more compelling is his recognition of Reese’s rebounding ability. He refers to Reese as the “rebound queen,” which isn’t just a throwaway comment.
Reese’s rebounding numbers have been impressive, consistently putting her among the top rebounders in the NCAA. Her ability to clean the boards on both ends of the court adds a crucial element to her team’s game, something that Clark, while excelling in other areas, doesn’t match at the same level.
In conclusion, O’Neal’s remarks underscore Angel Reese’s well-rounded game. While Caitlin Clark’s shooting range and basketball IQ are undeniable, O’Neal believes Reese’s offensive diversity and her rebounding dominance set her apart as a superior player.