Sue Bird Weighs In: Why Angel Reese is Her Pick for Rookie of the Year—If Not for Injury

In an insightful and candid discussion on the current state of women’s basketball, WNBA legend Sue Bird has weighed in on the growing rivalry between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. Bird, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in WNBA history, emphasized the importance of prioritizing on-court performance and development over social media fame—a sentiment that has become increasingly relevant in the age of digital influence.

The Growing Influence of Reese and Clark

Bird acknowledged the excitement surrounding the rivalry between Reese and Clark, two of the brightest young stars in the WNBA. While she respects both players’ skillsets, Bird made it clear that she believes Angel Reese would have been her pick for Rookie of the Year (ROTY) if not for her injury. The standout forward has dominated on the court, showcasing her remarkable ability to control the game and impact both ends of the floor.

“If not for her injury, Angel Reese is still my pick for ROTY. She dominates,” Bird shared, speaking highly of Reese’s all-around game. “She’s tough, versatile, and capable of taking over games.”

Despite the injury setback, Bird is confident that Reese’s talent remains undeniable and her path to greatness is still very much intact.

The Pitfalls of Social Media Fame

As the conversation turned toward the pressures young athletes face, Bird highlighted the unique responsibility female athletes carry as role models for the next generation. She praised the increasing media coverage of women’s sports, recognizing its importance in elevating visibility and garnering support for the women’s game.

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However, Bird also offered a word of caution, particularly regarding the influence of social media. She expressed concern over Reese’s recent controversies surrounding her public image, including her Instagram posts. After a bold outfit choice and subsequent deletion of posts, Bird warned that athletes, especially young ones, should not let the allure of social media overshadow their athletic goals.

“You can’t let social media fame take you off your course,” Bird said. “It’s easy to get distracted by the spotlight. But at the end of the day, it’s about what you’re doing on the court that matters.”

Caitlin Clark’s Focus and Work Ethic

In contrast, Bird praised Caitlin Clark for her relentless commitment to improving her game. Bird specifically highlighted Clark’s work on new offensive moves, including a mid-range floater, as evidence of the Iowa guard’s dedication to refining her skills. Bird pointed out that Clark’s development mirrored the work ethic of NBA superstar LeBron James, who is known for his continuous drive to evolve and improve.

“That’s how greatness is built. It’s built on hard work and continuously getting better,” Bird emphasized. “Caitlin Clark’s focus on improving her craft is something I really respect. She’s been dedicated to getting better, and it shows on the court.”

A Call to Focus on Dedication, Not Social Media

Bird took the opportunity to address the next generation of WNBA stars, urging them to channel setbacks, like injuries or moments of public scrutiny, into motivation for improvement. She reinforced her belief that the future of the WNBA lies in the foundation of hard work, discipline, and commitment to the game, rather than fleeting fame garnered from social media platforms.

“The game is about the work you put in. Social media doesn’t measure your greatness,” Bird said. “True success comes from how you perform in those critical moments, not how many followers you have.”

Conclusion: A Timely Reminder of Athletic Integrity

Sue Bird’s comments serve as a much-needed reminder that true greatness in sports comes from dedication and continuous improvement. While Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark have certainly captured the spotlight, it’s the values of hard work, humility, and focus on the court that will define their long-term legacies.

As Reese continues her recovery and Clark continues to dazzle fans with her playmaking, Bird’s insight into the importance of staying grounded and focused will undoubtedly resonate with aspiring athletes across the world.

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