Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s growing WNBA rivalry is fueling record-breaking ratings, fan drama, and league buzz in 2025. Here’s everything you need to know.
Let’s be honest—the WNBA has never been hotter, and a lot of it comes down to one electric rivalry: Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese. This clash isn’t just about basketball; it’s a cultural moment, sparking debates across ESPN, TikTok, and Twitter (now X). Whether you’re team Caitlin or ride-or-die for Angel, there’s no denying these two are fueling a WNBA boom in 2025.
From buzzer-beaters to bold interviews, the Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese saga is pushing WNBA viewership, merch sales, and social media engagement to new heights. Let’s dive into how this rivalry is shaping the league’s present—and future.
🔥 Why Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese Is THE WNBA Story of 2025
From NCAA to WNBA: A Rivalry Reborn
- Remember Iowa vs LSU in 2023 and 2024? The tension, the taunts, the records?
- Now imagine that drama—but professional.
- Both were drafted in 2024: Caitlin to the Indiana Fever, Angel to the Chicago Sky.
- The WNBA schedule made sure we’d see multiple showdowns this season.
Games That Delivered Drama
Here’s a quick look at the Clark vs Reese matchups in the 2025 season (so far):
| Date | Game | Clark Stats | Reese Stats | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 17, 2025 | Fever vs Sky (Chicago) | 24 pts, 7 ast | 20 pts, 13 reb | Fever |
| June 9, 2025 | Sky vs Fever (Indiana) | 32 pts, 6 threes | 18 pts, 14 reb | Fever |
| July 1, 2025 | Fever vs Sky (neutral court) | 18 pts, 5 TOs | 25 pts, 17 reb | Sky |
One thing’s for sure—these games are delivering on the hype.
📺 WNBA Viewership Is Surging in 2025
The numbers don’t lie:
- Fever vs Sky games featuring Clark and Reese are the most-watched WNBA games this season.
- According to ESPN, their June 9 rematch pulled 1.8 million viewers—a new WNBA regular season record.
- Social media mentions of “WNBA” spiked 68% in the 48 hours after that game.
Why Fans Are Tuning In
- Real beef: It’s not fake or manufactured. There’s legit tension.
- Star power: Both Clark and Reese are personalities on and off the court.
- Crossover appeal: Even NBA fans are watching.
📱 Social Media Is Feeding the Fire
TikTok & X Explosions
- Angel Reese’s post-game quote: “I’m not here to be liked, I’m here to win.” → 9.4M views.
- Clark’s subtle clapbacks go viral weekly.
- Hashtags like #ClarkVsReese and #WNBA2025 are trending regularly.
Fan Takes Are Divided
- Team Caitlin: “She’s changing the game with her range and vision.”
- Team Angel: “She’s the heartbeat of the league—tough, emotional, unapologetic.”
Who’s right? That’s the beauty of it—everyone’s got a side.
💼 Endorsements & Business Booming
Caitlin Clark’s Commercial Takeover
- Nike deal? Check.
- Gatorade campaign? Running daily during NBA broadcasts.
- 2025 Earnings: Estimated $7 million in endorsements alone.
Angel Reese’s Cultural Clout
- She’s locked in with Reebok, Puma, and Beats by Dre.
- Just featured on the cover of Essence magazine.
- 2025 Earnings: Roughly $5.5 million, plus growing fashion collabs.
🏀 Impact on the WNBA as a Whole
More Eyes = More Dollars
- Merchandise sales up 113% since 2024.
- WNBA League Pass subscriptions have nearly doubled.
- Fever and Sky games are now getting prime ESPN and ABC slots.
New Fans, New Demographics
- Gen Z is locked in thanks to Clark’s deep threes and Reese’s energy.
- More men aged 18–35 are tuning in, many from NBA fandoms.
📈 What This Means for the Future of Women’s Basketball
The WNBA Needs More Rivals Like This
- Think Bird vs Taurasi? Parker vs Moore? This is bigger.
- These two are marketing gold—and the league knows it.
Potential for All-Star Captains Showdown?
- Fans are begging for a Clark vs Reese All-Star draft in July.
- If it happens, expect fireworks and a media storm.
🗓️ Next Matchup: Mark Your Calendars
August 3, 2025 – Indiana Fever @ Chicago Sky
This one’s got:
- National TV slot on ABC.
- Both players likely All-Stars.
- A potential playoff preview.
🤔 Final Thoughts: Are You Not Entertained?
The WNBA is in a golden age, and the Clark-Reese rivalry is front and center. It’s the perfect storm of skill, storylines, and social firepower. If you’re a casual fan, now’s the time to jump in. If you’re already watching? Then you already know:
This rivalry is just getting started.
🚨 Your Turn – Join the Conversation!
Who are you backing—Clark or Reese?
Drop your take in the comments, share this with your squad, and hit that subscribe button for weekly WNBA deep dives!
❓FAQs
1. Who is winning the Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese rivalry in 2025?
Right now, Clark’s team has the edge in wins, but Reese has more rebounds and double-doubles. It’s neck-and-neck.
2. Are the WNBA ratings actually going up because of these two?
Yes! Games with Clark and Reese are setting viewership records, especially on ESPN and ABC.
3. Will Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese be All-Star captains?
It’s likely, and fans are campaigning for it hard on social media.
4. How can I watch WNBA games in 2025?
You can stream on WNBA League Pass, or watch select games on ESPN, ABC, and Prime Video.
5. What other rivalries are brewing in the WNBA right now?
Keep an eye on A’ja Wilson vs Breanna Stewart, but Clark vs Reese is currently the top draw.
Also Read: Latest Trending News
