Chicago Sky’s preseason numbers hit rock bottom, and all eyes are on Angel Reese — the self-proclaimed face of the league — as fans ask the tough question: where’s the star power?

Angel Reese entered the WNBA with a bold promise: to bring unmatched passion, energy, and attention to the game. Drafted by the Chicago Sky as one of the most talked-about players of her generation, the former LSU star made headlines with her fierce confidence and outspoken style.

But this week, reality came crashing down.

The Chicago Sky’s recent preseason game drew record-low TV ratings, marking a stark contrast to the Caitlin Clark-led Indiana Fever matchup that shattered viewership records just days earlier. While Clark is being hailed as a once-in-a-generation ratings magnet, Reese’s WNBA debut left broadcasters and fans stunned — for all the wrong reasons.

Now, with critics growing louder and the numbers impossible to ignore, Reese finds herself at the center of a storm: frustrated, sidelined in the media spotlight, and fighting to prove she belongs at the top.

Preseason Disaster: Sky Ratings Flop, Clark’s Soar

In what was supposed to be a buzzy preseason showing for the Chicago Sky, the game instead flopped in spectacular fashion.

Broadcast on the same ESPN network that aired Caitlin Clark’s debut with the Indiana Fever, the Sky’s matchup drew a fraction of the viewership. Preliminary figures show a staggering drop-off of over 70%, compared to Clark’s record-breaking appearance.

While Reese posted modest numbers in the game — 13 points and 9 rebounds — the crowd size and broadcast enthusiasm painted a grim picture. Empty seats were scattered throughout the arena, and social media engagement was minimal. For WNBA officials hoping that Reese would be part of a new ratings surge, the disappointment was palpable.

In contrast, Clark’s preseason outing drew more than 366,000 viewers, with national headlines praising her poise, court vision, and fan magnetism.

Angel Reese Responds — And It’s Not Subtle

Sources close to Reese say the rookie forward was “furious” upon learning of the lopsided media attention — and particularly irritated by comparisons to Clark that flooded social media.

In a now-deleted tweet, Reese appeared to take a veiled swipe at the obsession surrounding Clark’s every move, writing: “It’s funny how some get hyped for doing what others been doing.” The post sparked instant backlash, with fans accusing her of bitterness.

Though she hasn’t spoken publicly about the ratings flop, insiders say Reese feels “undervalued and disrespected,” believing she’s more than just a side story to the Caitlin Clark show.

But others argue that the fans — and the numbers — tell a different story.

‘She’s Not Moving the Needle’ — Fans Weigh In

Reaction across sports media and fan forums has been swift and unrelenting.

While Reese’s defenders blame network scheduling and lack of marketing, many observers believe the poor ratings expose a hard truth: Reese doesn’t have the draw Clark does.

“People tune in to see greatness, not attitude,” one user posted on X. “Caitlin Clark has earned her spotlight. Angel Reese talks like a superstar but hasn’t backed it up yet.”

Former ESPN host Michelle Beadle echoed similar sentiments, noting, “There’s a difference between hype and impact. Reese has the hype. Clark has the impact.”

And the numbers agree. Not only has Clark dominated viewership, but her arrival has sparked a surge in ticket sales, jersey purchases, and media coverage for the Indiana Fever. Chicago? Not so much.

Clark vs. Reese: A Rivalry That’s Not So Even Anymore

The tension between Reese and Clark dates back to their iconic showdown in the 2023 NCAA championship, where Reese’s famous “you can’t see me” taunt ignited one of the most divisive debates in recent sports history.

Since then, the two have been positioned as rivals — Reese, the defiant and fearless competitor; Clark, the generational talent with deep shooting range and even deeper fan loyalty.

But while the rivalry may have been equal in college, the early days of their pro careers are telling a different story.

Clark’s name is now synonymous with WNBA growth. She’s been featured in national ads, interviewed on prime-time television, and is widely credited with bringing a wave of new fans to the league.

Reese, on the other hand, is struggling to match the momentum. Her preseason performance was solid — but in a league fighting for attention, “solid” isn’t enough.

The WNBA’s Challenge: Balancing Star Power and Team Unity

Behind the scenes, league officials are reportedly grappling with how to manage the growing disparity between their stars. Promoting Clark too aggressively risks alienating veterans and rising talents like Reese. But ignoring the meteoric rise of “Clarkmania” could be financial suicide.

“You can’t manufacture stardom,” said Fox Sports contributor Clay Travis. “The public decides who they love — and right now, they love Caitlin Clark. That doesn’t mean Angel Reese can’t be great, but she needs to earn it on the court, not on social media.”

Others warn that if Reese’s frustrations boil over publicly, it could create deeper rifts within locker rooms — and damage the unity the league has worked hard to build.

What’s Next for Reese? Redemption or Rebellion?

Angel Reese now faces a pivotal moment in her young career.

Will she rise to the challenge and let her game do the talking? Or will she continue to fan the flames of off-court controversy in a bid for attention?

Some believe this rocky start will fuel her competitive fire. Others fear it may lead to further resentment and division.

What’s clear is that the league is watching. So are the fans. And so is Caitlin Clark — though you won’t hear her say much about it.

For now, the scoreboard doesn’t lie — not the one on the court, and certainly not the one in the ratings.

Conclusion: A Star Rises, Another Waits

Angel Reese came into the WNBA with massive expectations and unmatched swagger. But so far, it’s Caitlin Clark who’s delivering the results — and captivating a nation in the process.

The question now isn’t just about talent — it’s about timing, leadership, and legacy.

Because in professional sports, only one thing speaks louder than headlines: who the people are actually watching.

And right now, it’s not Angel Reese.