Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark faced off again on the court on Sunday. Since the LSU vs. Iowa days, the matchup between these two players has become must-see television. This is the first time they have met in the WNBA and there were some extra fireworks in this matchup. Reese was called for a flagrant foul in the third quarter when she caught Clark’s head as she drove to the basket. After the game, Reese blasted the officials over the calls throughout the game.
Angel Reese Calls Out Refs Over Foul On Caitlin Clark
Angel Reese described the play as “a basketball play.” She said she was going for the ball and caught the head of Caitlin Clark instead. After a review, it was determined to meet the criteria of a flagrant foul. Reese took exception to the call.
“I can’t control the refs. They affected the game a lot tonight. … I’m always going for the ball. But y’all going to play that clip 20 times before Monday.”
The Chicago Sky rookie was at odds with the officials all night. She was called for five fouls and got a delay of game warning at one point because she was arguing with an official. The game was physical and when asked about it during the postgame, she again pointed blame at the officials.
“I think we went up really strong a lot of times and we didn’t get a lot of calls. And going back and looking at the film, I’ve seen a lot of calls that weren’t made. I guess some people got a special whistle.”
Never A Good Look To Blame Officials
I don’t care what sport it is. Blaming officials after a loss never looks good. In the case of Angel Reese, the foul was flagrant. In today’s basketball landscape, if you miss the ball and clobber the head of an opponent, it is going to be more than a common foul. It doesn’t matter who it is; that’s going to get called. In watching the video, she is going for the ball, and Caitlin Clark admitted that after the game.
“It’s just part of basketball. It is what it is. Trying to make a play on the ball, get the block. I mean, it happens.”
The criticism over the flagrant foul isn’t even the worst part of that interview. The subtle jab at Caitlin Clark getting a “special whistle” comes off as petty. Accusing the officials of favoritism as the reason for losing is preposterous. Instead, maybe don’t allow the opponent to shoot over 50% from the field and 44% from three. Don’t allow four players to score 15+ points. Maybe don’t shoot 4-13 from the field yourself. There will always be bad calls, but this is a bad look for the rookie.
Angel Reese wants to be the face of the WNBA. This isn’t the way to do it. Nobody wants to be a fan of someone who whines about the refs and says the league favors one player.
About The Author
Matt Brown is one of the owners at Total Apex. He has been writing about sports and entertainment for over two years and currently works as a banker in Wisconsin. His passion for sports and entertainment knows no bounds, but football is the sport he follows most closely. However, he is never afraid to branch out, and you will see him talk about anything sports with anyone who will listen. Being a former Disney Store cast member, he will talk your ear off on anything Disney.
For More Great Content
Total Apex is an all-encompassing content producer. We provide heavily detailed articles every day on entertainment, gaming, sports, and so much more! Check out all our great sports content at Total Apex Sports. Check us out on X @TotalApexEandG and our other sites: Total Apex Sports Bets and Total Apex Fantasy Sports.
