Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark, former adversaries in college, entered the WNBA arena, showcasing their talents in their debut pre-season games. Their journey from collegiate competition to the professional league has been closely linked, drawing significant attention to women’s basketball through their outstanding displays of skill.
As they prepare for the upcoming 2024 WNBA season, Reese and Clark experience the intensity of professional play firsthand in their inaugural pre-season contests.
This narrative offers an opportunity to assess the performances of both athletes and juxtapose their respective debuts in the pre-season.
Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese: A tale of two pre-season debuts
Caitlin Clark WNBA pre-season debut: Indiana Fever vs Dallas Wings
The Indiana Fever lost to the Washington Mystics 79-76, thanks to Arike Ogunbowale sinking a step-back three-pointer, leaving three seconds left on the clock.
But looking at Caitlin Clark’s first game wearing an Indiana Fever jersey, she was able to make an impact. She scored 21 points, including five 3- pointers, three rebounds and two assists. However, she committed five turnovers. Clark attempted 15 shots and 13 of them came beyond the three-point line.
Leading the team with 21 points, Clark gave a glimpse of her chemistry with Aliyah Boston and Nalyssa Smith.
Angel Reese’s WNBA pre-season debut: Chicago Sky vs Minnesota Lynx
Moving to Angel Reese’s preseason game against the Minnesota Lynx, the Chicago Sky got outclassed 92-81. Along with fellow rookie Kamilla Cardoso, they played against established WNBA players Napheesa Collier and Courtney Williams.
The former LSU Tigers star provided the Sky with a near-double-double of 13 points and nine boards. She also contributed with two steals, one block and one assist in 24 minutes of playing time
However, Angel Reese struggled from the field (2-8). She made it up by having a proficient night from the free throw line, missing only one of her 10 attempts
Caitlin Clark vs Angel Reese: Analyzing their performance
Caitlin Clark scored 21 points as compared to Angel Reese’s 13. However, Clark also committed five turnovers and could only make 5- 13 from 3-point line.
On the other side, Angel Reese showed her rebounding skills, grabbing nine in the game. Expect her to be a double-double threat on a nightly basis. Choosing her shots will get better in time but her impact in the paint will certainly help the Chicago Sky.
As they continue to adjust to the pace and physicality of the WNBA, both Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese are showing glimpses of their potential in their debut pre-season games. While Clark’s scoring ability was on full display as she dropped 21 points, Reese’s presence in the paint and on the boards was equally impressive.
Clark’s ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc is a valuable asset for the Indiana Fever, but she will need to work on taking care of the ball to minimize turnovers. On the other hand, Reese’s knack for grabbing rebounds and getting to the free-throw line will be crucial for the Chicago Sky as they look to make a playoff push in the upcoming season.
It will be interesting to see how both players continue to develop and contribute to their respective teams as they gain more experience at the professional level. Stay tuned for more updates on their progress and performance throughout the 2024 WNBA season.
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Source: The Wall Street Journal
