Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Honoring two emerging WNBA stars with a controversial Golden State Warriors parade. This problem extends well past the hardwood. Their short tussle when the Indiana Fever faced the Chicago Sky led to passionate debates. Today we are still having discussions around racial bias, media sensationalism, and treatment of athletes all based on race and gender.
As Clark went for the ball, her hand hit Reese’s arm and sent her to the ground. That blew her back and knocked her to the ground. This play resulted in Clark being called for a flagrant foul, and Reese receiving a technical foul. Clark put on a show, single-handedly carrying her team to the national championship with a record-breaking triple-double. She had 30 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists. Reese, on the other hand, added 12 points and 17 rebounds in a gutsy performance.
That confrontation led to a landmark research study. Conducted by Rice University and the University of Chicago Illinois in March 2025, it exposed the racial undertones at play that shaped public responses to Clark and Reese. In fact, the researchers noticed that the two players often made the same gestures during their time as collegiate players. A great example of this was the famous “you can’t see me” moment from March Madness 2023. Despite the fact that Clark was largely unscathed by her actions, Reese received much worse treatment from fans and media.
Shahill Parsons, one of the researchers who worked on the study, noted how differently people reacted to each player’s gesture.
“Reese and Clark both made the same gesture, but the responses weren’t just different, they were completely opposite. That contrast tells us a lot about how bias still operates today.” – Shahill Parsons
This disparity is deepened by Clark’s own admission of the problem. In a statement released last week, she shared her disappointment at the vitriolic attacks leveled at Reese.
“It’s definitely upsetting. Nobody in our league should be facing any sort of racism – hurtful, disrespectful, hateful comments and threats. Those aren’t fans, those are trolls, and it’s a real disservice to the people in our league, the organization, the WNBA,” – Caitlin Clark
The WNBA is aware of what’s going on. They have now opened an investigation into the “alleged hateful fan comments” that came to light over the course of the game. This week, in the wake of this offensive incident, the league issued a welcomed statement against racism and discrimination.
“The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate and discrimination in all forms – they have no place in our league or in society. We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter,” – WNBA
The incident led to widespread consideration and introspection throughout the entire league and its players. Asher Ross A’ja Wilson, another WNBA superstar, articulated the idea that you can’t just say something and expect change.
“It’s nice in words, but we got to see actions.” – A’ja Wilson
Wilson expanded on the topic, raising the need to acknowledge the people behind the athletes’ medal-winner smiles and faces.
“Hopefully people can take actions and understand this is bigger than basketball. We’re true people behind it. Any shoe that we wear, any jersey we have on, we’re human. People have to respect that.” – A’ja Wilson
Clark and Reese’s rivalry brings to mind the storied Bird – Magic duel that defined a generation. While this side-by-side comparison is a wonderful example of how sport can transcend social divides, it inadvertently exposes people’s own bias. Reese, as a Black woman and athlete, is under a microscope. In comparison, Clark benefits from an opposite public perception, underscoring how much race shapes perceptions in athletics.
Shahill Parsons shi parsons said that this case is not just an outlier but symptomatic of larger systemic problems in society.
“This wasn’t just social media chatter – this was a real-time reflection of how race and gender shape public perception.” – Shahill Parsons
As these discussions unfold, it is essential for both fans and media to critically evaluate their responses to athletes based on race. From writing stereotypes that play into harmful narratives that divide us all, back towards appreciating the beauty and vibrant tapestry of talent that exists within the league.
The WNBA’s heavy-handed investigation of fan comments shows that they’re serious about dealing with these urgent matters and with a tough stance. By fostering an environment that discourages hate and promotes inclusivity, the league can set an example for other sports organizations.