In a moment that’s already gone viral across social media, Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese appeared to walk back her earlier implications that criticism of her — and support of fellow rookie Caitlin Clark — had been racially motivated. The comments came during a post-game WNBA press conference that quickly spiraled into controversy.

Reese, who has been at the center of a media firestorm since entering the WNBA, was asked about the narrative that she and Clark are being held to different standards by fans and the media. Her response raised eyebrows.

“Honestly, I think some of that got taken too far,” she said. “I never meant to say every fan of Caitlin Clark was racist — that’s not what I meant at all. A lot of people support her just because she’s a great player. That’s it. I think sometimes things get twisted online.”

The admission came as a surprise to many — especially after previous comments by Reese and her supporters suggested that the intense scrutiny she faced, compared to the overwhelming praise Clark received, had racial undertones.

Social Media Reacts

Within minutes, “Angel Reese Press Conference” was trending on X (formerly Twitter), with users split between those praising her for clarifying her stance and others accusing her of backtracking.

One viral tweet read:

“So… Angel Reese admits she made it up? All that drama for nothing?”

Others defended her, saying the media had twisted her earlier comments to begin with — and that her latest remarks simply clarified what she actually meant from the start.

A Heated Rivalry, Misunderstood?

Reese and Clark’s rivalry has electrified both the NCAA and now the WNBA. But what started as competitive fire on the court has often spilled over into heated, and sometimes toxic, fan debates — especially online.

Angel Reese has never directly accused Clark of racism, but she has been vocal about the way Black women athletes are criticized differently than white players. That’s a valid and important discussion. However, her comments have been interpreted in many ways — some of which she may not have intended.

The Bigger Issue: Media Spin and Online Firestorms

If Reese’s latest comments prove anything, it’s that soundbites and headlines don’t always tell the whole story. In the fast-paced world of online reactions, narratives form quickly — and often without full context. Reese may have slipped, or she may have simply clarified a misrepresented point.

Either way, the headlines will keep coming. And in the middle of it all, two young women — Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark — are trying to play basketball, navigate fame, and carry the weight of a spotlight bigger than the game itself.

Conclusion:
Angel Reese’s recent press conference may have softened some of her previous tones, but it doesn’t erase the larger issues at play. Whether it was a “slip-up” or a thoughtful clarification, it’s another reminder that public figures — especially women in sports — live under intense scrutiny where every word matters.