Rookie sensation and LSU national champion Angel Reese is facing intense scrutiny after her WNBA debut with the Chicago Sky reportedly drew some of the lowest preseason TV ratings in league history, sparking online comparisons to fellow rookie Caitlin Clark. But instead of staying quiet, Reese came out swinging — and her message is loud and clear: Don’t count her out.

The controversy ignited after ESPN viewership numbers were quietly released this week, showing a sharp contrast between Reese’s preseason games and the record-breaking ratings that followed Caitlin Clark’s every move with the Indiana Fever. The disparity was enough to set social media ablaze, with critics pointing fingers at Reese’s media presence and outspoken style — but the 6’3” forward wasn’t having any of it.

Low Numbers, Loud Reactions

According to early reports, Chicago Sky’s recent preseason matchup — which marked Reese’s professional debut — drew significantly fewer viewers than expected. In contrast, Caitlin Clark’s games have consistently shattered audience records, pulling in viewership numbers not seen in WNBA preseason history.

The backlash was swift and at times brutal.

“Angel Reese just got humbled by the TV ratings,” one commentator posted on X. “She talked the talk, but now the numbers are doing the talking.”

Some pundits suggested the discrepancy was a result of differing playstyles, public personas, or even political narratives built around the two players — with Clark viewed as a media darling and Reese painted as a divisive figure. That narrative gained steam during last year’s NCAA tournament, when their on-court rivalry drew both admiration and backlash.

Reese Responds: ‘Y’all Gonna Watch Eventually’

But if critics thought Reese would go quiet, they clearly underestimated her fire.

In a now-viral Instagram post, Reese fired back, posting a photo of herself in uniform with the caption:

“Y’all gonna watch eventually. Just wait.”

The message was short, direct, and defiant — exactly the kind of tone fans have come to expect from the self-proclaimed “Bayou Barbie.”

“I’m not here to be liked,” Reese said in a preseason press conference last week. “I’m here to win. If that makes people uncomfortable, that’s on them.”

Double Standards and Media Narratives?

Reese’s defenders say the controversy reflects something deeper: a long-standing double standard in how Black female athletes are treated by the media. Supporters argue that Reese’s confidence is being unfairly framed as arrogance, while Clark’s similar swagger is often praised as passion.

Former WNBA star Cappie Pondexter weighed in, suggesting the public is too quick to tear down rising stars who don’t fit the expected mold.

“Angel is unapologetically herself — and the league needs that kind of authenticity,” Pondexter said. “Let’s not forget, she’s still adjusting. Give her time.”

A Star Still in the Making

Despite the early viewership stumble, many analysts believe Reese’s long-term impact on the league could be just as profound as Clark’s — especially if she continues to develop on the court and find her rhythm in the pros.

“The WNBA isn’t built in one week,” said Fox Sports analyst Jason Whitlock. “Angel Reese has charisma, talent, and edge. That combination doesn’t always pop right away — but when it does, it’s unstoppable.”

Reese’s camp remains confident that her brand will grow as the season progresses — and that the noise around preseason numbers will eventually fade in favor of wins, highlights, and real stats.

Looking Ahead: Eyes on the Regular Season

The Chicago Sky are gearing up for the official season opener, and all eyes will be on whether Reese can turn the early criticism into motivation.

She’s already proven she thrives under pressure — from silencing doubters in college to embracing the spotlight as a bold voice in women’s sports. And now, with the stakes higher than ever, Reese has a chance to reshape the conversation entirely.

Conclusion: Don’t Count Her Out Yet

Angel Reese may not have won the preseason ratings war, but one thing’s certain — she’s not going away quietly. In a league desperate for stars, rivalries, and personalities, Reese is providing all three.

And if her message is anything to go by, she’s betting the world will be watching — soon enough.