A viral moment between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has reignited fan debate. While playing for Team USA, a missed high-five has everyone talking, and now, WNBA star Breanna Stewart is weighing in on the drama.

Breanna Stewart and Ryan Clark appeared on The Pivot podcast on March 12, just hours after Clark and Reese played their second game together in the tournament.

Clark raised the question that many around the WNBA have quietly debated. “Isn’t some of the toxicity good, though?” the former NFL safety asked.

Stewart responded by explaining that, "Sometimes players were having a hard time, like kind of adjusting to having all this, good energy, but also you have some negative energy on social media and stuff like that."

She said that players have to accept both the praise and the criticism that come with it.

"But if we want to be in this space where we're getting all the things we want, you have to be able to take both... Don't let it rattle you. Angel, Caitlin… They don’t let it rattle them," the 31-year-old said.

"They know that they're really elevating the game and not everybody is gonna love them, not everyone is gonna hate them," she added.

To make her point, Stewart even referenced LeBron James, noting that arguably one of the greatest to ever do it also faces heavy criticism despite his popularity.

Dave Portnoy Defended Caitlin Clark Amid Viral Moment

During Team USA’s game against Puerto Rico, Caitlin Clark recorded an assist that made it 39-15 with 4:40 left in the quarter, when Kiki Iriafen finished a layup under the basket.

As the play wrapped up, Angel Reese, who was standing nearby, extended her hand for a quick greeting, but Caitlin Clark appeared to turn the other way instead.

Moments later, with Reese’s hand still out, Rhyne Howard walked over and slapped hands with her so she wouldn’t be left hanging.

Dave Portnoy, who has openly supported Clark since she entered the WNBA, reacted on X. “I don't think Caitlin saw Angel, but I really, really hope she did,” Portnoy wrote.

CC also echoed that message, saying she has “nothing but respect” for Reese.

So, do you agree with Breanna Stewart that the attention around Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese has helped grow women’s basketball? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Sauramita Debbarma

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi