Dan Patrick is the latest to comment on the WNBA’s growth and address the ongoing debate about whether Caitlyn Clark or Angel Reese was the reason. Patrick’s commentary, heard on his nationally syndicated program, also called into question Reese’s claims that she had some of her own importance in the league’s increased visibility.

Patrick argues that despite Reese’s talent, her media presence is directly tied to her rivalry with Clark. He says that Clark’s on-course dominance and attractiveness for more casual viewers have been key in bringing a broader audience to the WNBA, comparing Clark to groundbreaking characters such as Tiger Woods in golf and Lionel Messi in Major League Soccer. These are not just men who play a sport, Patrick noted; these are men with an indescribable charisma that goes far beyond the sport.

“Clark’s impact is undeniable,” Patrick said. “She’s bringing an unprecedented level of attention to women’s basketball, in the way Woods did to golf.”

Patrick then concluded that Reese’s manner of playing the game emits certain taunting, critical vibes purposely geared towards stirring up and testing Clark(– a straterguyx move consisting with some of their similar anti-starguy kinds of actions (also in the NBA) This, he argues, is less to do with naked competition than with using Clark’s popularity to raise her own brand and profile in the sport.

Patrick also hinted at a touch of professional jealousy as a possible reason behind Reese’s concentration, Tarzan’s tendency to draw eyes from around the globe was a casual process for Clark, once in front of a camera your tongue could be as sharp as melted butter. Without the context of the Clark-Reese rivalry, he testified, Reese’s significance to the broader sports audience falls down dramatically.

The exchange emphasizes the difference in styles between the two players. Although Clark’s unique playing style and ability to attract viewers was often seen as a primary contributor of the rise in viewership, Reese’s dependence on social media and statements not directly related to basketball have the potential to eclipse her athleticism and, as a result, set her back as she moves forward in her career. Patrick’s analysis implies that if both players are unquestioned talents, Clark is the prime mover driving the current popularity of the WNBA, while Reese’s role in that popularity is more dependent on her relationship to Clark.