In a stunning declaration that sent shockwaves through the basketball world, Angel Reese made it clear where she stands regarding Caitlin Clark’s potential inclusion on Team USA. The outspoken and talented forward didn’t hold back, issuing an ultimatum: “If Caitlin Clark steps onto this team, I walk away—forever.”
Reese and Clark have shared one of the most intense rivalries in recent basketball history, dating back to their unforgettable showdown in the 2023 NCAA National Championship. That game, where Reese’s LSU squad triumphed over Clark’s Iowa team, ignited heated debates about competitiveness, sportsmanship, and race in women’s basketball. Since then, their names have been linked in nearly every conversation about the sport’s rising stars.
Though both players have dominated in their own ways, their dynamic has remained tense. On the court, they push each other to new heights, but off the court, the tension is undeniable. Reese’s latest statement proves that the divide may be deeper than anyone realized.
With the Paris 2024 Olympics approaching, Team USA has been evaluating its roster, aiming to bring together the best talent in women’s basketball. Clark, known for her record-breaking scoring ability, and Reese, a dominant force in the paint, are both prime candidates for the squad. However, Reese’s statement suggests that if the two were expected to coexist on the same team, she would rather remove herself entirely. Sources close to Reese say she feels her contributions and leadership are undervalued in comparison to the media frenzy surrounding Clark. The LSU star has been vocal about the disparities in attention, sponsorships, and narrative control in women’s basketball, and this latest move may be her way of making a stand.
Reese’s ultimatum puts Team USA in a difficult position. Both players bring unique strengths, and leaving either off the roster could spark backlash. Selecting Clark without Reese could alienate Reese’s supporters, while choosing Reese over Clark would likely lead to controversy among Clark’s growing fan base.
Team officials have not yet responded to Reese’s statement, but insiders suggest discussions are ongoing about how to navigate the situation without jeopardizing team chemistry or performance.
