Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were in agreement as they watched Dawn Staley secure her third national championship as head coach of South Carolina.
Clark, who had a record-breaking career at Iowa, became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft and continued to shine with the Indiana Fever. Meanwhile, Reese established herself as a dominant force with the Chicago Sky, showing her star potential when everything clicks.
After South Carolina beat Iowa in the title game denying Clark a national championship, Staley took a moment in her press conference to commend the Iowa guard. She praised Clark for her impact on women’s basketball, saying: “Personally want to thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport… Caitlin, you’re one of the GOATs. We appreciate you.”
Clark responded with admiration, acknowledging Staley’s legacy both as a player and a coach. “It means a lot coming from someone like Coach Staley,” she said. “I have so much respect for what she’s done for South Carolina and for the game.”
Reese also celebrated Staley’s achievement, posting on social media: “I’m sooo happy for @dawnstaley!! As a Black woman, I admire what you’ve done! You always checked on me & loved me like your own!”
Though Clark was never coached by Staley, she’ll now share the court with Bree Hall, Staley’s former player after the Fever selected Hall 20th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Hall, who won two titles under Staley, earned high praise from her coach, especially for her defense.
“Bree’s an elite defender,” Staley said. “She’s on my all-time defensive team. She’s consistent and embraces every challenge.”
Be the first to comment