Skip Bayliss picks sides in Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese rivalry as tension rises

The rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has become must-watch basketball. What began as a fiery exchange during the 2023 NCAA championship game has transformed into one of the WNBA’s most compelling storylines.  The tension reignited during a May 17 matchup between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky, when Clark was assessed a flagrant foul for what began as a take-foul but ended with a shove against Reese.

Now in their second professional seasons, both players are generating intense buzz-not just for their play, but for the drama, intensity, and competitiveness they bring every time they share the court. The latest voice to weigh in on this rivalry? None other than outspoken sports commentator Skip Bayless.

Skip Bayless: This is the ultimate WNBA rivalry

Speaking on the May 26 episode of The Skip Bayless Show, Bayless didn’t hold back.  “Caitlin did have a rookie foil figure opposite her in Angel Reese,” he said, referencing their shared history and the continuing on-court friction.  “Caitlin versus Angel in this year’s opener set the all-time WNBA ratings record.”

Bayless acknowledged Reese’s charisma and massive social media presence but was clear about who he believes is driving the league’s popularity.  “As cool and charismatic as Angel is… the truth is that Angel can’t begin to match Caitlin’s basketball drawing power, when Angel’s forte is just rebounding,” Bayless argued.  “People just won’t pay or tune in to watch Angel rebound against non-Caitlin teams.”  It’s a blunt take-but one that reflects the larger conversation around Clark’s meteoric rise. Since entering the league, Clark has been a ratings machine.

Her games routinely draw larger audiences than most regular-season matchups, and her presence has led to sold-out arenas, national broadcasts, and unprecedented attention for the WNBA. Reese, though less of a scoring threat, plays a critical role in keeping the rivalry alive. Her physicality, tenacity, and willingness to go toe-to-toe with Clark make for dramatic, high-stakes basketball.

Bayless went a step further, criticizing WNBA veterans and referees for how they’ve treated Clark so far in the league. Though he wasn’t the first to voice concern about Clark being targeted on the court, his comments add fuel to an already intense fire.  Calling Clark and Reese’s feud the “ultimate” WNBA rivalry might seem premature – after all, they’re both only in their second season. But Bayless isn’t alone in his assessment. Fans, analysts, and league executives have all taken notice of the energy these two bring to the floor and the spotlight they shine on the WNBA.

While it’s unclear how long this rivalry will continue to burn, what’s certain is that it’s drawing eyes, selling tickets, and elevating the women’s game in ways few could have predicted. Whether you’re Team Clark or Team Reese, one thing’s for sure: their story is just getting started.