In a move that has sent social media into a frenzy and placed the WNBA under a glaring spotlight, Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese is facing backlash after sharing a controversial TikTok that many fans interpreted as promoting violence or hostility toward fellow rookie and WNBA sensation Caitlin Clark.

And the most disturbing part? The WNBA hasn’t said a word.


THE POST THAT STARTED IT ALL

The uproar began when Angel Reese — known for her fiery on-court presence and unapologetic attitude — reposted a trending TikTok video with a caption that included a string of laughing emojis, a basketball, and what many described as a “thinly veiled threat.” The video itself featured audio implying that “someone needs to humble” a certain star — with imagery strongly suggesting it was aimed at Clark.

Social media users quickly connected the dots. The timing. The tone. The content. It all seemed to target Caitlin Clark, who has been dominating the WNBA spotlight since her debut, breaking viewership records and outshining even veteran players.

Within hours, “Angel Reese” and “Caitlin Clark” were trending across multiple platforms. Thousands of fans — and even some athletes — demanded an explanation.

“This is NOT okay,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Why is it always open season on Caitlin Clark?”

Another posted: “Reverse the roles and imagine the chaos. Why is the WNBA silent?”


NO COMMENT FROM THE LEAGUE

Despite the escalating storm, the WNBA has not released any official statement addressing the situation. No clarification. No condemnation. Not even a vague call for sportsmanship.

The silence has only made the controversy louder.

Critics argue that the league’s refusal to respond may signal selective enforcement — pointing out how certain players are disciplined swiftly for minor infractions, while others seem immune from consequences when controversies involve bigger personalities or sensitive narratives.

“If Caitlin Clark had posted something like this,” said a WNBA analyst who requested anonymity, “it would have been headline news on every network. And the league would’ve moved immediately. But Angel? Silence. That speaks volumes.”


A GROWING PATTERN OF TARGETING CAITLIN CLARK?

This isn’t the first time Caitlin Clark has found herself at the center of aggressive tactics, both on and off the court.

During a recent game, Clark took multiple hard fouls — including a hit that many fans called “unnecessary” and “intentional.” Clips of her getting shoved, elbowed, and taunted have been viewed millions of times online, with many fans questioning whether there’s a coordinated effort to knock her down — literally and figuratively.

“She’s a target. And not just because she’s good,” said a former player. “There’s jealousy. There’s resentment. There’s this unspoken feeling of: ‘You don’t belong here. You haven’t earned this attention.’ But the truth is, she has. And that scares people.”


CANDACE PARKER AND OTHER STARS — WHERE ARE THEY?

As fans demand accountability, many have started calling out WNBA veterans for their silence as well.

Where is the leadership? Why has no major player stepped forward to denounce the rising hostility against the league’s biggest star?

“Candace Parker, Breanna Stewart, A’ja Wilson — we love you,” wrote one fan. “But where are your voices now? This is when it matters.”


FANS DEMAND ACTION — OR CONSEQUENCES

The WNBA is at a crossroads. On one hand, it has never seen this level of attention and media coverage. On the other hand, it’s now grappling with a dangerous tone creeping into the league — one where off-court jabs and veiled threats could escalate into real consequences.

If the league fails to address the situation clearly and decisively, fans warn it could backfire.

“Caitlin Clark is bringing millions of new eyes to this league,” a WNBA blogger wrote. “If they feel she’s being bullied or scapegoated — and the league stays silent — those fans will walk away. Maybe for good.”


THE BOTTOM LINE

As of now, the WNBA’s silence remains deafening. Angel Reese has not deleted the post. No apology has been issued. And Caitlin Clark? She’s continuing to play, continuing to score, continuing to carry the weight of the league’s future — all while being targeted on and off the court.

One thing is clear: the fans are watching. And they won’t be quiet forever

Angel Reese Was Alleged Target of Racist and ‘Hateful’ Comments During WNBA Game Against Caitlin Clark’s Fever

The WNBA stars clashed after Clark fouled Reese during the third quarter of the game on Saturday, May 17

Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark

The WNBA is investigating allegations of “hateful” and racist comments targeting Chicago Sky star Angel Reese, according to multiple reports.

The incident occurred during the Sky-Indiana Fever game on Saturday, May 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, where Reese and Fever phenom Caitlin Clark butted heads — and renewed discussion of their rivalry, which dates back to college.

During the third quarter, Clark went for the ball and slapped Reese’s arm in the process. The reigning Rookie of the Year was called for a flagrant 1 foul, but not before the former LSU standout tried to confront Clark. Fever forward Aliyah Boston tried to intervene and was called for a technical, as was Reese.

After the Sky star went to the line to shoot free throws, Reese was booed by fans, something which occurred throughout the game, according to ESPN.

The IndyStar reported that Reese was the target of the alleged racist comments.

“The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society,” the league said in a statement. “We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter.”

Both the players’ union and the arena’s management condemned the remarks.

Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever and Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky look on during a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 16, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.Emilee Chinn/Getty

“The WNBPA is aware of reports of hateful comments at yesterday’s game in Indianapolis and supports the WNBA’s current investigation into this matter,” a statement said. “Such behavior is unacceptable in our sports.”

“We are aware of the allegations of inappropriate fan conduct during yesterday’s game and we are working closely with the WNBA to complete their investigation,” Pacers Sports & Entertainment CEO Mel Raines, who oversees the Fever, said in a statement. “We stand firm in our commitment to providing a safe environment for all WNBA players.”

Reese and Clark have a history of being perceived as rivals, which extends to their clash in the 2023 women’s Final Four.

Last year, Clark told reporters that they “have always been great competitors,” while Reese also refocused the narrative.

“I don’t think people realize it’s not personal,” Reese said last year. “Once we get out between those lines… if I see you walking down the street, it’s like, ‘Hey, girl, what’s up? Let’s hang out.’ I think people just take it like we hate each other.”

She added, “Me and Caitlin Clark don’t hate each other. I want everybody to understand that. It’s just a super-competitive game.”