Shaquille O’Neal, a legendary figure in basketball, has never been hesitant to voice his support for Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky forward. O’Neal has strongly endorsed Reese for WNBA Rookie of the Year, praising her tenacity and skill on the court. However, after witnessing the impressive performance of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever rookie, in her second triple-double of the season against the Los Angeles Sparks, O’Neal’s opinion has expanded to recognize Clark’s abilities. This marks a significant moment, as Shaq previously focused his admiration solely on Reese.
In a recent interview, Shaq shared his thoughts on Clark’s skills. “Caitlin Clark does everything right,” he told Sports Illustrated. While O’Neal admits that he hadn’t spoken much about Clark before due to his loyalty to Reese, he couldn’t deny Clark’s talent. “I’m watching her play, and I want to be upset because Angel is my girl, but Caitlin makes all the right plays. She’s resilient, never complains, and consistently delivers on the court.” Shaq’s acknowledgment of Clark highlights the growing recognition of her as a formidable force in the league.
Caitlin Clark has been gaining momentum and is outpacing Reese in most major statistical categories, except for rebounding. Her consistent excellence since the Olympic break has even sparked discussions of her potential for the MVP title. As Clark’s dominance in the WNBA continues, O’Neal’s appreciation for her game has grown. He recognizes her as a future star in the making, one whose influence is undeniable.
O’Neal, known for his candid and often supportive takes, was quick to express respect for both young athletes. He emphasized how girls like Clark and Reese represent the future of the sport. “All young girls should look up to WNBA players, and right now, those two are my favorites,” O’Neal added. His balanced praise for both athletes showcases his deep appreciation for the next generation of women’s basketball talent.
In the end, O’Neal’s stance reveals a broader understanding of what it takes to be great in the WNBA. Whether Angel Reese or Caitlin Clark ultimately claims the Rookie of the Year title, it’s clear both players have earned Shaq’s respect, and their careers are ones to watch closely.
