Caitlin Clark Breaks Records — and the Internet — After Topping NBA Jersey Sales, Sparking Backlash from Angel Reese & A’ja Wilson Supporters

In a move that has shocked both fans and insiders of the basketball world, Caitlin Clark — the Indiana Fever rookie and former Iowa standout — has just claimed the No. 1 spot in the NBA’s jersey sales charts, according to recent league-wide merchandise data. While her rise has been lauded by many, it’s also sparked an unexpected wave of outrage among fans of Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson, two of the WNBA’s most celebrated stars.

A Record-Breaking Moment

Despite only recently entering the professional league, Caitlin Clark’s popularity has transcended typical rookie buzz. Her jersey is reportedly outselling those of major NBA stars like LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Luka Dončić, and more notably, leaving behind WNBA veterans like A’ja Wilson (Las Vegas Aces) and Angel Reese (Chicago Sky).

The announcement sent social media into a frenzy. While Clark’s supporters hailed the news as a sign of a new era in women’s sports, others felt the achievement represented deeper issues of bias, media favoritism, and systemic inequality within the league.

Why Are Fans So Angry?

Almost instantly after the sales data was released, hashtags like #MediaBias, #RespectTheVets, and #NotJustClark started trending. Supporters of Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson expressed frustration that their faves, despite being in the league longer and delivering elite-level performances, continue to be overshadowed by the media spotlight shining on Clark.

“This isn’t about hating Caitlin,” one user posted on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s about the media ignoring Black excellence in the WNBA for YEARS. A’ja is a two-time MVP. Angel brought the swagger back to the game. But all we see is Clark this, Clark that.”

Another fan wrote, “A’ja Wilson is putting up Hall of Fame numbers, but Clark sells more jerseys before she scores 10 points in her debut? Make it make sense.”

This backlash is more than just about jersey sales — it’s about representation, recognition, and race. A number of social media posts called out what they see as the preferential treatment given to Clark, a white athlete, over Black stars who have long carried the WNBA on their shoulders.

The Marketing Machine Behind Clark

There’s no denying that Caitlin Clark arrived in the WNBA with momentum. Her college career at Iowa shattered viewership records, she was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, and she’s signed endorsement deals with Nike, Gatorade, and State Farm.

With a strong social media presence, a dedicated fanbase from her NCAA run, and constant coverage from sports media outlets, Clark was already a household name before even stepping on a WNBA court.

“Caitlin is more than just a player — she’s a brand,” said sports marketing expert Jenna Morales. “She represents something new, something viral. That’s why her jersey is flying off the shelves. But the issue is that her stardom is being treated as revolutionary when the league already had stars like Wilson and Stewart who never got the same push.”

Angel Reese’s Reaction? Subtle But Loud

Though Angel Reese has not directly commented on the jersey sales situation, fans believe she threw subtle shade on social media. A cryptic Instagram Story showing her nodding with the caption “They know who really run this game 💅🏾” was quickly reposted by thousands.

Reese — who has built her own brand as the “Bayou Barbie” and has been outspoken about media bias in the past — is no stranger to being both celebrated and criticized. Her fans see her as unapologetically herself, and they’re fiercely protective of her legacy.

“Angel and Caitlin have been compared since college,” one fan posted. “But it’s clear now that no matter what Angel does, she’ll always have to fight twice as hard for half the credit.”

A’ja Wilson Supporters Demand Respect

If there’s one player who arguably deserves more attention in this conversation, it’s A’ja Wilson, the two-time WNBA MVP and anchor of the Las Vegas Aces’ back-to-back championship runs.

Wilson’s fans were especially vocal, pointing out how her consistent dominance has often been sidelined in favor of flashier storylines.

“How is Caitlin topping jersey sales when A’ja is the best player in the league?” one person tweeted. “The disrespect is real. They market Clark like she invented women’s basketball.”

Others noted that Wilson’s post-game interviews, leadership, and court presence are rarely turned into viral moments, whereas Clark is constantly trending, even when her performance is average.

Clark’s Camp Stays Silent

So far, Caitlin Clark and her management team have remained quiet amid the backlash. However, sources close to her have indicated that she’s focused solely on improving her game and helping the Indiana Fever get back into playoff contention.

“She’s aware of the chatter,” said one source, “but Caitlin’s trying not to let any of it distract her. She knows she still has to prove herself on the court.”

Divided Fanbases, United Spotlight

The debate over Clark’s meteoric rise and jersey sales success isn’t going away anytime soon. While some argue that Clark is simply the product of good timing and smart marketing, others believe the current system reflects racial and media inequalities that have long plagued the WNBA.

One thing is certain: this conversation has brought more attention to the league than ever before. Whether it’s outrage or celebration, the spotlight is on women’s basketball, and everyone — from die-hard fans to casual viewers — is watching.

Conclusion

Caitlin Clark may be topping charts and headlines, but it’s clear that her rise has exposed long-simmering tensions within the WNBA fanbase. While the jersey sales mark a win for Clark and the Fever, they’ve also reignited discussions about race, respect, and recognition in women’s sports.

As Clark prepares for the rest of her rookie season, all eyes will remain not just on her game — but on how the league responds to the ongoing discourse around fairness, favoritism, and the future of the WNBA.