Just weeks into their WNBA journey, former college stars Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith are already making headlines — but not for their on-court chemistry.

Angel Reese FIRES BACK After Being Ranked Worst in WNBA—Meanwhile, Caitlin  Clark Runs the League! - YouTube

Instead, rumors are swirling around a brewing tension between the two rookies, who were unexpectedly reunited on the same WNBA roster after going their separate ways post-LSU.

Now, insiders are whispering that Reese and Van Lith aren’t getting along — and that Angel may have just started a full-blown BEEF with her former college teammate.

The Ugly Side of Caitlin Clark VS Angel Reese - YouTube

Let’s break down what we know, what’s been said, and what’s possibly going on behind the scenes.

From College Teammates to WNBA Tension?

During their time together at LSU, Reese and Van Lith formed a powerful, if not always smooth, one-two punch.

But while they shared the court, their personal chemistry was never quite clear. And after LSU’s dramatic end to the 2024 season, Van Lith transferred for her final college year, while Reese declared for the WNBA Draft.

The Day Caitlin Clark Humiliated Her Bully Angel Reese - YouTube

Fast forward to April 2025 — both end up on the same WNBA team. Fans expected a reunion full of sisterhood and swagger.

But what they got instead? 👀

Cold body language. No joint interviews. A noticeably distant vibe during team media day.

Angel Reese says WNBA hype is about more than Caitlin Clark: 'Because of me  too'

The Moment That Sparked It All

According to multiple sources, the tension boiled over during a team practice, when Reese reportedly called out Van Lith for being “too passive” and “not playing with enough energy.”

A source close to the team claimed:

“Angel’s intensity is always at 100, but this felt personal. She didn’t hold back, and Hailey didn’t appreciate being singled out in front of the squad.”

Angel Reese takes thinly veiled jab at Caitlin Clark's popularity, impact  on the WNBA | Fox News

Later that day, Reese allegedly posted a cryptic Instagram story saying:

“Some people talk leadership. Others live it. Watch who folds.”

 Fans immediately connected the dots, speculating it was aimed at Van Lith — and it didn’t take long before WNBA Twitter took over.

Angel Reese takes a shot at Caitlin Clark before DELETING tweet after  Chicago Sky beat New York Liberty | Daily Mail Online

Social Media Reacts: Fans Pick Sides

With both Reese and Van Lith having loyal — and loud — fanbases, the internet exploded.

#TeamAngel and #TeamHailey started trending, with fans debating who was in the wrong:

Angel Reese seemingly takes a swipe at WNBA rival Caitlin Clark in  since-deleted post

“Angel just wants to win. She’s holding her teammates accountable.”

“Hailey deserves more respect. She’s trying to adjust to the pros like everyone else.”

“This is why chemistry matters more than talent.”

 

Some fans even suggested the team’s front office made a mistake pairing them again, especially without clear leadership roles being defined.

Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese WNBA stats: How rival rookies stack up ahead  of first pro matchup | Sporting News

What the Coaches Are Saying

While the team has not issued an official statement, head coach [Insert Coach Name] downplayed the drama in a press conference:

“They’re both passionate competitors. Things get heated in practice — that’s part of building a championship culture.”

Still, when asked if the two rookies had spoken since the incident, the coach dodged the question.

Celebrated Rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Respond to Fan Criticism  of Seasoned WNBA Players | Glamour

Is This Beef Real or Just Media Hype?

Some believe the entire situation is being blown out of proportion — that this is just two fiery players adjusting to the pro level and dealing with the pressure of expectations.

But others point to the lack of visible camaraderie, no joint public appearances, and the tone of recent interviews to say: yep, this is real.

And with both players having huge personal brands and millions of followers, this isn’t just a locker room issue — it’s a potential PR headache.

Angel Reese hopes WNBA All-Star 2024 isn't only time she's teammates with  Caitlin Clark, teases Olympic run | Sporting News Canada

Final Thoughts: Can This Duo Survive the Spotlight?

Whether this beef fizzles out or turns into a full-blown rivalry within the same locker room, one thing is clear:

Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith’s relationship will define part of this team’s story.

 

If they find a way to work together, it could be explosive in the best way. If not? The drama might overshadow the basketball.

And in the high-stakes world of the WNBA, team chemistry isn’t optional — it’s everything.