Dawn Staley Sends Clear Message About Caitlin Clark & Angel Reese Controversy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steph Dwilson | Last updated May 20, 2025 4:44 PM ET

South Carolina women's basketball coach Dawn Staley was a guest on "The View" on May 20 to talk about her new book, "Uncommon Favor." During her appearance, one of the hosts asked her about the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese controversy. Staley had a clear message in response.

One of the hosts asked Staley what she thinks of the controversy surrounding Catlin Clark, a guard on the Indiana Fever, and Angel Reese, a forward on the Chicago Sky.

"At last week's WNBA game, Caitlin fouled Angel, and then it looked like Angel kind of confronted her afterward," the host started. "And after that she faced a ton of racist and hateful...comments online from people. And the WNBA was quick to put out a statement condemning discrimination, racism in all forms. But what do you make of this whole controversy around it?"

Staley didn't mince words.

"What I make of it is, we need to take the lead of Caitlin and we need to take the lead of Angel," she said. "They've gotten over it. They've said, 'It's done. It's basketball. Let's move on.'"

After encouraging everyone to move on, just like the players have, Staley added: "But, in my book, 'Uncommon Favor,' you can find the answers."

Staley has been on a tour promoting her new book, which is already getting rave reviews. She also was a guest on "Good Morning America," where she talked about how important it is to be an example for her players.

That desire is reflected in a quote from her book where she writes: "I can't ask them to stand up for themselves if I'm sitting down. I can't encourage them to use their voice to effect change if I'm only willing to whisper."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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