The latest rankings are out, and the debate over who truly leads women’s basketball has taken another dramatic turn. Caitlin Clark has been named the Most Influential Female Athlete of 2025, leaving Angel Reese—and her fans—stunned.
Clark’s dominance on the court is undeniable, but now her impact has been recognized off the hardwood as well. Complex released their list of the Top 10 Most Influential Women in Sports, and Clark didn’t just make the list—she claimed the top spot.
Meanwhile, Reese, who has built her brand on confidence and controversy, found herself looking up at Clark yet again. The self-proclaimed “Bayou Barbie” has never been one to back down from a fight, but this latest ranking might be her toughest loss yet—one that has nothing to do with points or rebounds.
Influence isn’t just about stats; it’s about shifting the culture. Clark has done just that—bringing record-breaking viewership, selling out arenas, and sparking billion-dollar TV deals for women’s basketball.
Meanwhile, Reese has thrived in the spotlight for different reasons. Whether it’s her unapologetic confidence or her social media presence, she’s made headlines. But the difference is clear: Clark’s influence is built on undeniable performance, not just personality.
As soon as the rankings dropped, social media exploded with reactions. While Clark’s fans celebrated another well-earned victory, Reese’s supporters were left questioning why their favorite star had been overlooked.
Some even suggested that the ranking was a reflection of favoritism, not true impact. But the numbers don’t lie—Clark isn’t just playing basketball, she’s transforming it.
Angel Reese Sends Three-Word Message After Unfortunate Injury News
Chicago Sky star Angel Reese reasserted her place as one of women’s basketball’s best players after her Unrivaled campaign. The 22-year-old won the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award for Rose BC and also leads it with 12.1 rebounds per game.
This comes on the heels of an All-Star WNBA rookie season in which she topped the league with 13.1 boards a night. Reese was a major reason why the Rose (8-6) are in the Unrivaled championship against the Vinyl (5-9) on Monday night.
However, the former NCAA champion was ruled out of the contest due to a hand injury, via Meghan L. Hall.
Still, Reese supported her teammates via X. Ahead of the championship game, Unrivaled’s DPOY posted a three-word message for Rose BC.
“COME ON ROSEBUDSSSSS,” the 2024 WNBA All-Rookie honoree tweeted.
With Kahleah Copper (leg) also out, the Rose are deploying Brittney Sykes, Chelsea Gray, and Azura Stevens in their starting lineup, with Lexie Hull and Naz Hillmon as reserves.
Meanwhile, the Vinyl are starting Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby, and Jordan Canada, with Aliyah Boston and Rae Burrell off the bench.
Reese ranked sixth in Unrivaled with a team-high eight blocked shots this season while also totaling eight double-doubles. Additionally, the 2024 SEC Player of the Year had the first 20-20 game in league history on Feb. 21, notching 22 points (10-19 FG, 0-1 3 PT) with 21 rebounds in a 73-62 win over the Lunar Owls.
Reese will now focus on rehabbing for the WNBA season. The Sky will play their first game against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on May 17.
