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'It Had A Lot To Do With Racism': Caitlin Clark And Angel Reese Spark Joy Taylor’s Take On Racism And Misogyny Fueling League Growth
May 17, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) shake hands before the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

This rivalry is no right versus left ideology. And it ain’t an aggressor-aggresee situation either. Joy Taylor had heads nodding when she broke down how the clash between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese isn’t just about game drama—it’s about something deeper.

“Caitlin is not a victim. She is an incredibly great player… one of the most impactful college basketball players, man or woman… It is what they represent, and the conversation that they generate,” Taylor said, framing the conversation beyond stats.

She went further, naming the forces behind the attention.

“When I use the Larry Bird-Magic Johnson comparison… That is what Angel Reese and Caitlyn Clark are doing… And it had a lot to do with racism. It had a lot to do with misogyny,” she added.

Fans lit up social media, calling it “a clearer mirror than any highlight reel”, pointing toward how conversations around Caitlin Clark echo bigger societal dynamics. Viewership has reflected that, too—WNBA record-breaking ratings are credited largely to Clark’s arrival and visibility.

Caitlin Clark’s influence is undeniable. She isn’t just racking up points—her return timeline is still uncertain, as Indiana’s guard sits out her 15th straight game due to a groin injury, with no clear comeback date yet.

Whether she’s dominating on the court or sparking crucial dialogue off it, Caitlin Clark remains a lightning rod for change—and the fuel for a league in overdrive.

Caitlin Clark to Miss Her 15th Straight Game as Fever Waits on Her Return

The absence of Caitlin Clark continues to be a tough one for Indiana Fever and their fans. She’ll sit out her 15th consecutive game on Sunday due to a persistent right groin injury, compounding the damaged timing of a season that kicked off with major optimism.


LOOK: Caitlin Clark And Aliyah Boston Leave Aerial Powers Teary-Eyed Over Old Picture 1 Aug 24, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) shakes hands with Indiana Fever forward Aliyah Boston (7) and Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull (10) during a timeout against the Minnesota Lynx in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

She’s also dealing with an ankle issue that surfaced during rehab, though Coach Stephanie White emphasized it doesn’t affect her groin recovery. White added that Clark’s comeback will be mindful and methodical.

“It’s day-to-day right now… we’re taking it one day at a time. The most important thing… is Caitlin’s long-term health.”

It hasn’t been easy for fans—some Reddit threads show frustration, noting Clark “was never fit after her first injury… brought back due to ratings.” Others weighed in on how the lineup’s changed rhythm might impact playoff positioning.


Aug 24, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) cheers on her team from the bench against the Minnesota Lynx in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Even sidelined, Caitlin Clark remains the lens for WNBA attention and identity. The league’s rising numbers, the media buzz—they all trail back to her impact. Her return can’t come soon enough—for the Fever, for the league, and for those seeking to keep the conversation moving forward.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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