Angel Reese and Shaquille O’Neal’s controversial twist sparks social media uproar
In the Netflix episode “Power Moves with Shaquille O’Neal,” the NBA legend stressed the need for Angel Reese to wear Reebok while competing against Clark, drawing a clear parallel between the two stars.
The campaign appeared to rely heavily on Clark magnetism and fame to highlight Reese, which did not go unnoticed by fans.
Angel Reese today with Shaquille O’Neal.😭#WNBA pic.twitter.com/CmDYr53FME
— Angel And Kamilla👯♀️ (@AngelAndKamilla) October 2, 2024
Smart marketing or a costly misstep?
Responses on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) were almost unanimous, with many users accusing Reebok of leveraging Clark’s popularity to promote Angel Reese. Even suggesting that the young Indiana star “owes” her success and fame to Clark.
Sarcastic comments and memes flooded the conversation, exposing the campaign as a possible strategic blunder that may do more harm than good.
Some followers argued there’s room for both athletes in the WNBA. But insisted that forcing comparisons and depending on one figure to promote another is counterproductive.
While Caitlin Clark is celebrated for attracting new audiences and revolutionizing women’s basketball visibility, Angel Reese is valued for her physical dominance and impact in the paint.
The play no one saw coming: Shaq and Reebok caught in the eye of the storm
This controversy raises an essential debate. How to balance promoting stars with such different styles and roles without making one seem diminished?
The episode is a clear example that in sports marketing, rushed decisions can generate more negative noise than real gains.
Fans and analysts will keep a close eye on the relationship between Angel Reese and Caitlin Clark. As rising stars in the evolving WNBA work to make their mark without overshadowing one another.