Angel Reese Announces to Team USA: “If Caitlin Clark Joins, I Will Leave the Team and Never Come Back.”
In a surprising turn of events, WNBA star Angel Reese has reportedly issued a firm ultimatum to Team USA’s basketball management: she will depart from the team permanently if fellow player Caitlin Clark is included in the roster.
This development comes as a shock to many, especially considering the history between Reese and Clark. The two athletes have been central figures in women’s basketball, both celebrated for their exceptional skills and competitive spirit. Their rivalry dates back to the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship, where Reese’s LSU team triumphed over Clark’s Iowa squad. During that game, Reese made headlines with a gesture directed at Clark, which sparked widespread discussion about sportsmanship and competitiveness in women’s sports.
In the professional arena, both players have continued to excel. Reese, playing for the Chicago Sky, and Clark, representing the Indiana Fever, have both made significant impacts in the WNBA. Their on-court performances have been instrumental in increasing viewership and bringing attention to women’s basketball.
Despite their competitive history, there have been moments of mutual respect. In a previous interview, Reese expressed optimism about the future, stating, “In the future, we’re going to be playing with each other a lot. Hopefully, in four years we can be Olympians together.”
However, the recent ultimatum suggests a significant shift in Reese’s stance. The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, and neither Reese nor Clark has provided an official statement regarding the matter.
Team USA’s Triumph and Speculation for the Future
Angel Reese insisted, “leave me out of this” after Team USA won Olympic gold without her or Caitlin Clark on Sunday. A star-studded squad led by A’Ja Wilson edged past hosts France 67-66 to claim gold in Paris.
As soon as Cheryl Reeve’s team triumphed, speculation immediately began as to who could feature for Team USA at the next Olympic Games in Los Angeles in four years. An ESPN article theorized that the likes of Reese and Clark—as well as college stars Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins—could all be involved.
Quoting the piece, however, Reese was not to be drawn. Alongside an angel emoji, she wrote: “Let’s just congratulate these women & let them enjoy this moment! Leave me out of this until my time comes!”
Reese’s Performance and Future Prospects
Prior to the Olympics, Reese was part of a Team WNBA side that beat Team USA 117-109 in the WNBA All-Star Game. The occasion saw Reese, 22, team up with former college rival Clark on the way to victory.
While the two have been involved in several epic battles, the Chicago Sky star enjoyed being on the same side as her Indiana Fever foe for once. She told ESPN at the time: “It’s so cool. I know when she gets the ball I’m running looking for the ball because I know she’s gonna throw it. She’s been great to play with.”
Reese has enjoyed a productive rookie season in the WNBA. She memorably produced a streak of 15 consecutive double-doubles. She also recorded 12 points and 11 rebounds in 18 minutes during the All-Star Game, making her the first rookie in league history to record an All-Star Game double-double.
Offseason Activities and Looking Ahead
With the WNBA on a four-week hiatus during the Olympics, Reese headed to Europe. She sat courtside in London as Team USA beat Germany at the O2 Arena in their final Olympics warm-up game. She also visited Games host Paris during her trip.
With her vacation now in the rear-view mirror, Reese is set to return to WNBA action on Thursday night. As the debate continues surrounding her ultimatum and potential role in future Team USA selections, all eyes remain on her next moves in the WNBA and beyond.
