WNBA star Angel Reese has sparked controversy by urging a boycott of Nike after the brand signed Caitlin Clark to a historic $28 million deal and featured her in a major advertising campaign—including a billboard in Chicago, a city closely tied to Reese’s fanbase. Reese’s response has ignited a heated debate over fairness, recognition, and racial dynamics in women’s basketball marketing.

Nike’s contract with Clark is one of the most lucrative rookie shoe deals in WNBA history, cementing her status as one of the most marketable players in the league. However, Reese’s supporters feel the move downplays her own impact on the game, despite her immense popularity.

As of October 2024, Reese had amassed a massive social media following, with 4.4 million Instagram followers and 4.6 million on TikTok. Her influence has helped her secure endorsements worth $1.7 million over the past two years, but many of her fans—often referred to as “Reese’s Pieces”—believe she has been overlooked for larger deals like Clark’s.

Reese Speaks Out

Reese took to social media to vent her frustration, particularly over Nike’s decision to place a large billboard of Clark in Chicago, just minutes from Wintrust Arena, where Reese will play for the Chicago Sky.

“THANK YOU, MOM, FOR KEEPING ME” – Fox News Host Lawrence Jones Shares Heartfelt Story of His Mother’s Toughest Decision at 16

Behind Bravo’s Glittering Curtain: Real panic is setting in as Andy Cohen faces the harsh truth—Erika Jayne is now more of a liability than an asset. Her name once symbolized ratings, luxury, and power, but now it’s ticking like a time bomb. Bravo might frame it as “balancing loyalties,” but this is about survival. If the scandal drags them down, they won’t hesitate to cut her loose. What’s really happening behind the scenes, and how much longer will Erika last?

OVERJOYED: FOX NEWS COUPLE RACHEL & SEAN DUFFY WELCOME NEW FAMILY MEMBER IN A HEARTFELT MOMENT—FANS ARE IN AWE OF THEIR LOVE STORY FROM MTV’S REAL WORLD TO TODAY! In an emotional and deeply moving moment, Rachel and Sean Duffy have welcomed a new family member, and fans can’t help but celebrate their incredible journey together. From their time on MTV’s Real World in 1994 and 1997 to their blossoming family life today, the couple’s story has touched the hearts of many. The love and devotion they share are evident in this beautiful new chapter. Fans are in awe of how far they’ve come—what’s next for this beloved Fox News duo? Find out more below 👇

HEARTBREAKING CONFESSION: Fox News Star Harris Faulkner BREAKS SILENCE About Her Growing Fears for Her Two Daughters—What Is the Mysterious “Milestone” That’s Keeping Her Awake at Night? Fans Left Shaken by Her Emotional Words and Powerful Motherhood Message

Fox News Fans Left Speechless After Shocking Emily Compagno Moment

How a Part-Time Singer Became Full-Time Inspiration: The Roberts Story

“Y’all see what’s going on,” Reese posted. “They make it clear who they want to push. Keep that same energy when we stop supporting.”

Her call for a boycott quickly gained traction, with many fans and athletes weighing in. Critics of Nike’s decision argue that Black female athletes are often overlooked in major endorsements compared to their white counterparts, pointing to long-standing disparities in sports marketing. Others defended Nike’s choice, emphasizing Clark’s record-breaking performances and rising national profile.

Tensions in the WNBA and Beyond

The Clark-Reese rivalry has been a driving force behind the WNBA’s recent surge in popularity. Their fierce competition dates back to the 2023 NCAA women’s championship, where Reese’s LSU team defeated Clark’s Iowa squad in a heated matchup. Since entering the WNBA in 2024, both players have helped elevate the league to new heights.

Viewership and attendance skyrocketed in 2024, with WNBA regular-season attendance up 48% and ESPN ratings increasing by 170%. Clark’s presence had an especially dramatic effect—her team, the Indiana Fever, saw a 320% jump in attendance, leading the league with an average of 17,000 fans per game.

Their on-court battles have been intense, with multiple controversial flagrant fouls fueling the rivalry. The feud will be reignited when Reese’s Chicago Sky faces Clark’s Indiana Fever on May 17, a game expected to draw significant attention.

Nike’s Strategic Move or a Marketing Misstep?

Nike’s decision to feature Clark in Chicago has been viewed by some as a bold marketing move and by others as a direct challenge to Reese on her home turf. The controversy raises broader questions about how major brands choose to promote women’s basketball players and whether certain athletes receive disproportionate support.

As Team USA, the WNBA, and major sponsors continue to shape the future of women’s basketball, Reese’s outspokenness ensures that conversations about representation, fairness, and marketability won’t be going away anytime soon.