The Fever are just four games into the new season, and Caitlin Clark has already been making headlines–especially with the latest chapter of her rivalry with Angel Reese. But fans will have to wait for the next showdown. Clark is expected to miss at least the next four games, including the highly anticipated June 7 clash in Chicago. That’s right–Caitlin Clark won’t be suiting up for the Fever over the next two weeks with a left quadriceps injury. And, unfortunately, this news has delighted a certain section of the community.

Last season’s Rookie of the Year and a first-team All-WNBA pick, Caitlin Clark has been lighting it up once again–averaging 19.0 points and a league-leading 9.3 assists through her first four games. But now, she’s set to miss her first-ever regular-season games in the WNBA. Clark had never missed a single game during her college career at Iowa–where she became the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer. That durability made this news even more surprising. But there were signs.

Back in training camp, Clark was already dealing with some left quad tightness, even missing a preseason matchup against the Mystics. At the time, the team downplayed it, saying it was “probably just a little too much basketball.” But now, a team spokesperson has clarified that this latest injury–while affecting the same leg is not related to the issue she had during camp.

The basketball world has been buzzing about the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese rivalry since their college days, when Reese’s LSU outshone Clark’s Iowa in the 2023 NCAA Championship. That game wasn’t just a sporting event, it was a cultural moment, pulling in nearly 10 million viewers and setting the stage for their pro careers. Their matchups have become must-watch TV, with fans picking sides and fueling debates that go beyond the court. This history makes Clark’s injury more than just a setback, it’s a pause in one of the WNBA’s biggest storylines, stirring up emotions across the community.

More importantly, Clark’s absence is a big blow for the WNBA. The league’s ratings have skyrocketed this season–and there’s no denying that Caitlin Clark’s arrival is a massive reason why. To make matters worse for Fever fans, Angel Reese’s rising fanbase didn’t hold back either. They were quick to join in, adding a little extra spice to the rivalry–even with Clark on the sidelines. Let’s take a look at those fan reactions!

Caitlin Clark suffers more agony from Angel Reese’s fans

The basketball world was quick to react to the news–many expressing shock and sending well-wishes for Clark’s recovery. But as always, there was a vocal section of fans who saw it as an opportunity to pile on even more misery for the Fever star. “Angel Reese fans are in heaven after seeing this” commented a fan. Another joined in saying, “Big news for Reese fans”

The WNBA’s growing spotlight has amplified these reactions, with social media turning rivalries into battlegrounds. Some fans have taken the Clark-Reese rivalry too far, using Clark’s injury to fuel negativity.

It’s no secret that the Caitlin Clark–Angel Reese rivalry has become one of the biggest storylines in basketball. It all began with their unforgettable clash in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, which drew a staggering 12.3 million viewers. Since then, the hype has only grown. When they faced off in the W last June, the game pulled in 2.25 million viewers on CBS–and that number jumped to 2.7 million when they met again on ABC this season. Simply put, when Clark and Reese share the court, people tune in.

While many of Angel Reese’s fans showed support and sympathy for Caitlin Clark after news of her injury broke with one even saying, “This is a horrible comment & NO DECENT HUMAN BEING would wish injury on any one🧐😡🧐😡…..Please take this down and pray for CC’s healing🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽….,” some couldn’t resist taking a jab at the Fever rookie. One fan trolled the Indiana guard, posting, “👀 Caitlin Clark out 2 weeks with quad strain. Welp I guess Angel Reese is going to have to carry the league. 🤷🏾‍♂️😂 #FeverRising”. As always, the internet remains a space where negativity can easily brew.

For Clark, this injury is her first major test in the pros, but if anyone can handle it, it’s her. She faced nonstop pressure at Iowa, breaking records while tuning out the noise.

Even Angel Reese wasn’t spared from the dark side of the internet. The last time she faced off against Caitlin Clark, she was reportedly subjected to racial slurs—something serious enough to trigger a WNBA investigation. With Clark now sidelined, it’s fair to assume the league’s ratings might take a dip. But not everyone agrees. One fan pointed out, “Luckily while Caitlin Clark is hurt, the WNBA can lean on an array of likable stars like Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson. #uhoh”

There’s no shortage of talent in the WNBA right now. Sure, Angel Reese is dominating the boards, leading the league with 13.1 rebounds per game. But it’s not just about her and Caitlin Clark—there are plenty of other stars shining bright. Take MVP A’ja Wilson, for example. She’s leading the Aces in every major stat this season. And don’t forget Napheesa Collier–she’s been on fire, leading the league in scoring with nearly 30 points per game.

Losing Clark is definitely a big blow for the Fever, but right now the focus has to be on her recovery. The team needs to rally around her, making sure she gets the support and care she needs to bounce back strong. And as for the negative comments online? Clark’s got to block that noise and stay focused–her comeback will speak louder than any of the hate.