WNBA legend Lisa Leslie sends strong message to Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 13, 2026 1:44 PM ET

Lisa Leslie is one of the most well-known figures of the WNBA. Along with Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, they are among the most-recognized WNBA players in history.

Leslie is considered to be one of the best female basketball players of all time. The 53-year-old is part of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2015.

In her career, she won two WNBA championships, three WNBA MVPs and two WNBA Defensive Player of the Year awards. On top of that, she is also an eight-time WNBA All-Star and she has 12 All-WNBA selections.

Leslie is also successful on the international stage. She has led the USA Women’s Basketball team to two FIBA World Cup gold medals and four consecutive Olympic Gold medals.

Former WNBA player Lisa Leslie introduces Candace Parker during her jersey retirement ceremony.

WNBA Legend Lisa Leslie gives respect to Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese

Clark and Reese are two of the most recognizable players in the WNBA today. Since joining the league in 2024, they have been touted as the new faces of the WNBA. Clark is known for her prolific scoring, while Reese earned a reputation for her tenacity and rebounding.

This time around, the young stars are representing the same team — the United States of America. Clark and Reese are part of Team USA’s lineup for the FIBA Women’s World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournament.

Clark is wearing number 12 for Team USA, while Reese is donning the number 9. Their jersey numbers are reminiscent of two Team USA legends — Diana Taurasi and Leslie.

On social media, Leslie shared a post highlighting both duos. The WNBA icon added a caption to her Instagram story.

“Got it right

@caitlinclark22 and @angel.reese” wrote Leslie.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ClutchPoints WNBA (@clutchwnba)

The duo of Clark and Reese still has a long way to go. This is the first time for both stars to suit up for the USA’s senior national team. And, compared to Leslie, they have four Olympic golds and two World Cup golds to catch up to.

Either way, the future of Team USA’s women’s team is in good hands.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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