Dave Portnoy Explodes Over Caitlin Clark–Angel Reese Controversy: “Stop Making This About Race — Fans Have Every Right to Dislike Angel!”

As tensions continue to simmer following the heated on-court clash between WNBA stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has stepped into the spotlight — firing back at critics who accuse him of fueling the controversy with racial undertones.

The fire was stoked on Monday when ESPN analyst Ryan Clark criticized fellow analyst Robert Griffin III for suggesting Angel Reese “hates” Caitlin Clark — and in the process, took a shot at Portnoy, accusing him of piling on Reese in a racially charged narrative.

But Portnoy wasn’t having it. In a passionate rant posted Tuesday, the outspoken media personality defended his long-standing criticism of Reese, insisting it has everything to do with sportsmanship — or lack thereof — and nothing to do with skin color.

“Race-baiters on the left, race-baiters on the right — every day someone’s trying to make this rivalry about race,” Portnoy said. “I’m here to speak for Caitlin Clark fans. We don’t hate Angel Reese because she’s Black — we dislike her because of how she acts on the court.”

“Reese Is Not a Victim — She’s Been the Aggressor”

Portnoy pointed to the now-iconic moment from the 2023 NCAA Championship, when Reese taunted Clark by mimicking her signature “you can’t see me” gesture after LSU defeated Iowa. That, Portnoy argued, set the tone for the ongoing animosity — and fans haven’t forgotten it.

“She’s been an agitator, a trash-talker, a provocateur. That’s why Caitlin fans can’t stand her,” Portnoy added. “And frankly, if someone kept mocking your favorite player over and over, you’d hate them too — regardless of race.”

He also dismissed the idea that Clark has behaved similarly or invited the criticism.

“Don’t try to rewrite history. Caitlin has never disrespected Reese. She’s just played the game. Her fans admire her game — the logo threes, the no-look passes. That’s why she’s beloved. Not because she’s white.”

“Caitlin’s Popularity Isn’t About Race — It’s About Greatness”

Portnoy wrapped his rant by calling out what he sees as unfair media narratives and defending Clark’s record.

“There have been many white superstars in women’s basketball,” he said, “but none have electrified the country like Caitlin Clark. She’s a once-in-a-generation talent, and her fans love her because of what she does on the court — not what she looks like.”

“So don’t ask Caitlin Clark to answer for racism. She’s never said anything racist. She’s just out there hooping. And if Reese keeps poking and prodding her, yes — people are going to hate her. And that hate isn’t racist. It’s just sports.”

As the WNBA continues to investigate alleged racist comments from fans during the Fever vs. Sky matchup, the league — and the country — finds itself at a cultural crossroads: when does passionate fandom cross the line, and when is it simply part of the game?