The WNBA is currently experiencing a seismic shift, a tectonic plate movement in terms of attention and viewership, and at the epicenter of this change is rookie sensation Caitlin Clark.

Her arrival in the league has been nothing short of a phenomenon, drawing unprecedented levels of media coverage, fan excitement, and corporate interest.

While this surge in popularity is largely seen as a boon for the WNBA as a whole, it also inevitably creates ripples and undercurrents, and one such ripple seems to be affecting another highly anticipated rookie, Angel Reese.

Angel Reese, fresh off a dominant college career and a national championship with LSU, entered the WNBA draft with significant fanfare herself.

Known for her tenacious play, rebounding prowess, and undeniable charisma, Reese was expected to be a major draw for the Chicago Sky and a prominent figure in the league’s new rookie class.

However, the Caitlin Clark effect has been so overwhelming, so all-consuming, that it seems to have inadvertently cast a shadow over Reese and other incoming rookies.

The narrative, fueled by media and fan speculation, suggests a brewing tension, a sense of being overshadowed, and perhaps even resentment from Reese as the spotlight intensely focuses on Clark.

Recent whispers and online chatter have amplified this perceived tension, suggesting that some established WNBA superstars are seemingly aligning themselves more closely with Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, almost to the exclusion of other rookies like Angel Reese.

This isn’t necessarily a conscious act of rejection, but rather a natural gravitation towards the unprecedented buzz and commercial opportunities that Clark brings.

Veteran players, savvy about the business side of basketball, likely recognize the rising tide Clark is creating and are positioning themselves to benefit from the increased attention and revenue that is expected to follow.

The idea of WNBA veterans “ditching” Angel Reese is, of course, a dramatic interpretation, but it stems from the observation of social media interactions, public statements, and general media narratives.

While there’s no concrete evidence of outright animosity, the absence of overt public support or collaboration between some established stars and Reese, particularly when contrasted with their visible engagement with Clark, has fueled speculation.

This perceived differential treatment, even if unintentional, can understandably be interpreted by Reese and her fanbase as a slight, or at the very least, a reflection of the shifting power dynamics within the league.

It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t necessarily a personal affront to Angel Reese, but rather a consequence of the unique circumstances surrounding Caitlin Clark’s entry into the WNBA.

Clark’s record-breaking college career, coupled with her captivating playing style and mainstream appeal, has created a perfect storm of hype and anticipation.

WNBA veterans, many of whom have tirelessly advocated for increased recognition and financial stability for the league, are understandably embracing this moment as an opportunity to elevate the entire sport.

Aligning with Clark, in the public eye, could be seen as a strategic move to capitalize on this unprecedented attention and push the WNBA further into the mainstream.

From Angel Reese’s perspective, however, this situation could understandably feel frustrating. She is a champion, a dominant player in her own right, and she entered the WNBA with high expectations.

To see the spotlight so intensely focused elsewhere, especially on a fellow rookie, while potentially witnessing established players seemingly gravitate towards that spotlight, could easily breed feelings of being undervalued or overlooked.

Reese is known for her competitive fire and unwavering confidence, and it’s in her nature to want to be at the forefront, to be recognized for her own accomplishments.

Being perceived as secondary in this narrative, even if unintentionally, could understandably lead to feelings of disappointment or even anger.

The “furious” aspect of the headline might be an exaggeration, but it taps into a very real undercurrent of potential tension and shifting dynamics within the WNBA.

It’s not necessarily about personal feuds or outright “ditching,” but rather about the inevitable re-alignment of attention and opportunity in the wake of a phenomenon like Caitlin Clark.

For Angel Reese, this presents a unique challenge and opportunity. She has the talent and personality to carve out her own prominent space in the WNBA, regardless of the external hype surrounding Clark.

In fact, this perceived slight could even serve as fuel for Reese, motivating her to prove herself on the court and demonstrate her own star power.

Ultimately, the WNBA is big enough for multiple stars, and the arrival of both Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, along with other talented rookies, is a positive development for the league.

While the initial attention may be overwhelmingly focused on Clark, Reese has the potential to build her own legacy and cultivate a dedicated fanbase.

The narrative of WNBA superstars “ditching” Reese might be sensationalized, but it highlights the complex dynamics at play as the league navigates this period of unprecedented growth and attention.

It will be fascinating to watch how these narratives unfold on the court and in the public sphere as the season progresses, and how players like Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark shape the future of the WNBA, both individually and collectively.

Instead of focusing on a potentially manufactured rivalry or perceived slights, it’s more productive to appreciate the influx of talent and excitement that both Clark and Reese bring to the WNBA. The league is poised for a new era of growth, and both rookies have the potential to be cornerstones of this evolution.

The true test will be how they perform on the court, how they navigate the pressures and expectations, and how they ultimately contribute to the continued rise of women’s basketball.

The initial hype and narratives are just the opening act; the real story will be written game by game, season by season, as these young stars begin to define their professional careers in the WNBA.