Angel Reese has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in the WNBA. Her recent homecoming game with the Chicago Sky at LSU garnered buzz—not just for her on-court performance, but also for the energy and storylines surrounding it. Let's dive into Angel Reese's rising career, her LSU return, and her ongoing rivalry with Caitlin Clark.

Angel Reese’s WNBA Debut and LSU Homecoming

Angel Reese, after an extraordinary college career at LSU, made her long-awaited debut for the Chicago Sky during the 2025 WNBA preseason. The game took place in Baton Rouge, bringing Reese back to the very court where she helped her team secure the 2023 NCAA National Championship. Fans were eager to witness her professional journey begin in familiar territory.

Despite the anticipation, attendance at the Sky's preseason match fell short of expectations, with only 6,373 fans in a 13,215-seat arena. Social media buzzed with comparisons to the packed house for Caitlin Clark's return to Iowa. The homecoming for Clark, who now stars for the Indiana Fever, sold out within minutes and set new records for ticket prices and attendance. TalkSPORT captured the contrast between these two rising stars and the crowds they drew.

Rivalry Rekindled: Angel Reese vs. Caitlin Clark

The competitive fire between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark began with the 2023 National Championship game, where Reese’s LSU team triumphed over Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes. Their rivalry is now a defining storyline for the WNBA. Following the LSU homecoming, the difference in crowd size sparked debate online. Angel Reese's mother even addressed the situation, emphasizing championship banners over crowd numbers. For a closer look at her response and the ongoing conversation about fan support, check out this detailed analysis on OutKick.

Early Impact and Next Steps

Angel Reese’s game spoke volumes—even if the arena was not packed to capacity. She finished her homecoming with a double-double, posting 15 points, 10 rebounds, and two steals in just 16 minutes. Her ability to deliver under pressure was evident. As the team looks ahead to the regular season, fans are eager to see how Reese’s presence will shape the Chicago Sky. The Sky’s season opener against the Indiana Fever promises more excitement, as the Reese-Clark rivalry continues on the professional stage.

The Broader Impact on Women’s Basketball

The hype around Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark is a huge win for the WNBA. Attendance records and social media debates are pushing women’s basketball into the national spotlight. Clark’s preseason return to Iowa highlighted just how much attention the sport is gaining. For a full game breakdown and to see how Clark and the Fever dominated Brazil—and why all eyes are on these rookies this year—visit the official Indiana Fever recap.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s transition from NCAA champion to WNBA star is off to a strong start. Her LSU homecoming, the ongoing rivalry with Caitlin Clark, and early professional achievements make her a player to watch. As the WNBA season unfolds, expect Reese to continue making headlines—both for her talent and the energy she brings to the game. Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable rookie season.