featured-image

Breanna Stewart is the latest star to speak her mind following the comments that WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert made in a CNBC interview, which centered around the vitriol that some supporters of Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark direct at the respective players. The New York Liberty star is not pleased by what she heard.

When asked about the hate-filled social media exchanges that occur at the expense of both rookie All-Stars, Engelbert focused on the rivalry aspect of the dynamic, comparing Clark and Reese to Larry Bird and Magic Johnson. She did not initially condemn the personal slander that the young women endure, which sparked outrage among players and fans.

Stewart felt strongly about how Engelbert approached the question.

Breanna Stewart wants WNBA commish to take firm stance

Team WNBA forward Angel Reese (5) passes the ball to Team WNBA guard Caitlin Clark (22) during the first half against the USA Women's National Team at Footprint Center.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
“To be honest, I saw the interview today, and since then have been in talks with Terri at the {WNBA Players Association},” the two-time Finals MVP said, per NetsDaily’s Lucas Kaplan. “I think that it’s disappointing to hear, because the way that the fans have surged, especially behind Caitlin and Angel coming to this league, but also bringing, like, a race aspect, to a different level.”

“And you know, there’s no place for that in our sport,” Stewart continued. “I think that’s really what it is. We want our sport to be inclusive for race, for gender, and really be a place where people can be themselves. So we wish, obviously, Cathy would have used her platform in a different way and have made that a little bit better, just telling the fans enough is enough.”

Engelbert clarified her comments and said that there is no place for “hate and racism” in the league or in society whatsoever.

Breanna Stewart drops honest take on Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese

There is no denying the impact the Clark-Reese rivalry has had on women’s basketball, dating back to their time in college. It is a major reason why the sport is drawing record-breaking viewership and attendance numbers. The Magic-Bird comparison has been made and could prove to be an apt one, depending on how the WNBA grows going forward. But context is important.