In a disappointing display of sportsmanship, Angel Reese and Chennedy Carter took a public shot at Caitlin Clark just hours before the WNBA All-Star Game. This incident underscores the ongoing tension and rivalry between these players, casting a shadow over what should have been a unifying event for the league.

Leading up to the game, Angel Reese had hinted at trying to “play nice” for a single day, but this attempt at civility was short-lived. Shortly before the All-Star Game, both Reese and Carter made derogatory comments directed at Clark, revealing the depth of their animosity. Reese’s comment about playing nice for just one day confirmed the widespread belief that she harbors strong dislike for Clark.

The tension between Reese and Clark is not new. A previous altercation saw Reese delivering a clothesline to Clark, an incident that many deemed unsportsmanlike and dangerous. Adding fuel to the fire, Carter has repeatedly criticized Clark, downplaying her skills and questioning her contributions beyond three-point shooting. These comments have aged poorly, as Clark has since proven herself by leading the league in assists and achieving the first-ever triple-double by a rookie.

Just hours before the All-Star Game, Reese and Carter took to social media to take a veiled shot at Clark. Reese posted about supporting her teammate Carter, stating she was watching the game “for Barbie and Barbie only,” a clear jab at Clark. This public display of pettiness, especially from players who should be promoting unity and sportsmanship, has drawn significant criticism.

Fans and analysts have expressed their disappointment in Reese and Carter’s behavior. The timing and nature of their comments were seen as unprofessional and damaging to the league’s image. As one fan pointed out, it is troubling for players to publicly state they are only interested in watching their teammates, ignoring the broader spirit of the All-Star Game.

The WNBA has struggled with internal conflicts and issues of sportsmanship. Clark, who has been a standout player since joining the league, continues to face unwarranted hostility from some of her peers. Despite this, she remains focused and resilient, consistently delivering strong performances and maintaining her professionalism.

The league’s commissioner, Kathy Engelbert, has previously downplayed the targeting of Clark, attributing it to the heightened spotlight on her. However, incidents like these highlight the need for the WNBA to address these internal issues more effectively. Ensuring a respectful and supportive environment for all players is crucial for the league’s integrity and growth.

In conclusion, the behavior of Angel Reese and Chennedy Carter before the WNBA All-Star Game reflects poorly on the league and underscores ongoing issues of jealousy and rivalry. Caitlin Clark’s ability to rise above these challenges and continue performing at a high level is commendable. The WNBA must take steps to promote sportsmanship and unity among its players, ensuring that the league remains a positive and inclusive environment for all.