What’s behind rising rivalry culture in the WNBA?
REPORT
15 Jan 2025
What’s behind rising rivalry culture in the WNBA?

The 2024 WNBA shattered viewership records, fuelled by rising stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. However, their supposed rivalry, amplified and often distorted by the media, ignited a firestorm of controversy, exposing underlying currents of racism and misogyny within the basketball fanbase.

Thom Denson

Thom Denson is a sports PR and communications specialist. He works with the agency MatchFit on projects for The FA and The EFL.

Bridget Parker

Bridget Parker is a WNBA superfan and expert. She’s particularly interested in the relationships between the players.

Marianne Eloise

Marianne Eloise is a journalist and commentator on neurodivergent issues. She has written for publications including The Cut, The New York Times, Courier, Dazed, Vulture, i-D, The Guardian, and Mic.