Angel Reese Reacts as Caitlin Clark Named Most Influential Women’s Athlete: A New Era in Women’s Basketball

In a development that has added another layer to the ongoing narrative in women’s basketball, Complex has released its list of the 10 most influential women in sports—and the results are reverberating across the industry. Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever’s rookie sensation, has claimed the top spot, leaving Angel Reese, the self-proclaimed “Bayou Barbie,” outside the top 10. The news has sparked fervent debate among fans, analysts, and athletes, highlighting a seismic shift in the landscape of women’s sports and redefining what it means to be influential in 2025.

Caitlin Clark’s meteoric rise is rewriting the rules of engagement for women’s basketball. Her influence isn’t limited to her scoring prowess or her uncanny ability to shoot from the logo; it extends to her impact on the culture, business, and visibility of the sport. Clark’s performances have shattered attendance records, driven unprecedented viewership numbers, and even spurred NBA-sized moves—such as the Indiana Fever’s games being relocated to larger arenas to accommodate surging demand. When Clark’s team played the Washington Mystics in D.C., the game was moved from the WNBA’s usual venue to the Wizards’ home court, a testament to her drawing power. In contrast, similar fanfare has been notably absent when Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky take the court.

The difference in influence between Clark and Reese is stark. While Clark’s name is synonymous with sold-out arenas, viral highlights, and a new generation of fans tuning in, Reese’s presence often feels more rooted in social media drama than on-court dominance. Clark’s ability to command respect is organic; she doesn’t need to demand attention—she simply earns it, night after night, with her play and poise. Her game speaks for itself, and the respect she receives from both fans and legends of the sport is a direct result of her talent and work ethic.

Angel Reese, on the other hand, has built her brand on confidence and controversy. Known for her outspoken personality and willingness to engage in Twitter feuds, Reese has become a polarizing figure. While her college career was marked by impressive achievements, her transition to the WNBA has been less seamless. The buzz that once surrounded her now seems to be overshadowed by Clark’s relentless ascent. Even preseason exhibition games featuring Clark have sold out within hours, with ticket prices soaring on the secondary market. Meanwhile, tickets for Sky games remain widely available, highlighting the clear difference in public interest.

This latest ranking from Complex has proven to be more than just a list—it’s a referendum on what real influence looks like in women’s sports. Clark’s reach goes beyond the court. She is a marketing powerhouse, with NIL deals, sponsorships, and merchandise sales that rival those of top male athletes. Her presence has made women’s basketball must-see TV, drawing in new fans and capturing the attention of executives eager to invest in the league’s future. Clark’s ability to break records, from scoring to attendance, is matched by her impact on the business of basketball. Her effect is so profound that even her college games at Iowa sold out larger venues, setting the stage for her current professional stardom.

For Angel Reese, this moment is a tough pill to swallow. The narrative that once positioned her as the face of women’s basketball is being rewritten in real time. Each attempt to overshadow Clark—whether through bold statements or social media antics—seems to backfire, drawing even more attention to Clark’s quiet dominance. While Reese’s supporters point to her confidence and college accolades, the reality is that influence in today’s game is measured by results, not rhetoric.

The contrast between the two athletes is especially apparent when examining their on-court performances. Clark’s game is reminiscent of NBA superstar Steph Curry, with her deep shooting range, quick release, and ability to change the momentum of a game in an instant. She is not just a scorer, but a playmaker and a leader, capable of elevating her teammates and delivering in high-pressure moments. Her basketball IQ and preparation set her apart, and her rapid adjustment to the professional level has been nothing short of remarkable.

Reese, meanwhile, has struggled to find the same level of success in the WNBA. Her game, once dominant in college, has not translated as easily to the pros. Missed layups, turnovers, and inconsistent effort have become recurring themes, prompting critics to question whether her influence is more a product of branding than basketball. While she remains a compelling personality and a role model for some, her on-court results have not matched the hype.

The implications of Clark’s ascendance and Reese’s struggles extend beyond individual accolades. The WNBA itself is undergoing a transformation, with young stars like Clark redefining what is possible for women’s sports. The league is seeing record-breaking attendance, increased media coverage, and a surge in merchandise sales. Clark’s presence alone has boosted WNBA attendance by over 100%, and her games are now must-see events, with tickets selling for thousands of dollars on the secondary market.

In contrast, the Chicago Sky have yet to experience a similar surge. Despite Reese’s high profile, her games have not drawn the same crowds or generated the same excitement. This reality underscores a fundamental truth: influence in sports is ultimately about performance, impact, and the ability to inspire. Clark has set a new standard, and the basketball world has taken notice.

As Complex’s list circulates, the conversation around influence in women’s sports is evolving. Clark’s recognition as the most influential female athlete of 2025 is not just a personal victory; it’s a signal that the era of self-promotion and social media theatrics is giving way to one defined by substance, skill, and genuine connection with fans. Reese’s reaction to being left off the list is telling—while she may continue to command attention online, the spotlight on the court is firmly on Clark.

Looking ahead, the challenge for Angel Reese and others in her position is clear: to reclaim their standing, they must focus on performance, improvement, and leadership. The days of relying solely on personality or past achievements are over. In this new era, the athletes who succeed will be those who combine talent with hard work, humility, and a willingness to let their game speak for itself.

For Caitlin Clark, the future is bright. She is not only the face of women’s basketball but also its most powerful catalyst for change. Her influence is real, measurable, and growing with every game. As the WNBA continues to evolve, one thing is certain: Clark’s impact will be felt for years to come, setting a new benchmark for what it means to be truly influential in sports.