Angel Reese’s Career at a Crossroads as Fans Face Backlash Amid Struggles on the Court

The 2025 WNBA season has brought unexpected challenges for Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky, sparking intense debate not just about her performance, but about the role her own fans may have played in creating unrealistic expectations. After a tough loss to the Indiana Fever—who were notably missing star Caitlin Clark—Reese’s shooting woes have become impossible to ignore.

Through seven games this season, Reese is posting a mere 30.9% field goal percentage, one of the lowest marks in the league. While her relentless rebounding remains a highlight, her offensive struggles continue to dominate headlines. Against Indiana, she grabbed double-digit rebounds yet scored only four points on 28.6% shooting, underscoring a pattern that has left many questioning her scoring ability.

The Fan Factor: Unrealistic Expectations and the “Clark-Reese Debate”

Since entering the league as the 7th overall pick, Reese has been under immense pressure, amplified by an ongoing, often heated comparison to fellow standout Caitlin Clark. Fans and media alike have fueled a rivalry that some now say never truly existed, building Reese up to superstar status before she had the chance to fully develop.

Critics argue that this narrative has been detrimental, placing unfair pressure on Reese to perform beyond her current capabilities. While her tenacious rebounding remains undeniable, her inconsistent shooting has been a persistent issue. Some believe the weight of these expectations has contributed to her poor shooting stretch this season.

The Reality Check

It’s important to remember that every rookie—and indeed every player—enters the professional ranks with areas to improve. Reese’s flaws have always been part of her game, but the hype surrounding her transition to the WNBA has perhaps been too lofty. In contrast, Clark’s consistent performance has set a high bar that Reese has struggled to reach.

While the early-season numbers paint a bleak picture, there’s still time for Reese to redefine her narrative. However, the growing frustration among fans and analysts underscores the powerful impact of expectations on athlete performance.

Looking Forward

Angel Reese’s journey in the WNBA is far from over. She has the talent and determination to adjust and grow. But as this early-season slump shows, success in professional sports is not just about skill—it’s about managing pressure, perception, and the weight of fan expectations.

As the saying goes: comparison is the thief of joy. For Reese and her supporters, the path forward will require resilience, focus, and a reminder that every athlete’s career unfolds in its own time.