Angel Reese gets Shaquille O'Neal supportAngel Reese, Caitlin Clark and Shaquille O’Neal (Image Source: Getty Images, IG/Shaquille O’Neal)

Angel Reese made headlines with her outstanding performance against old rival Caitlin Clark and her team, Indiana Fever. With her record-setting game, the Chicago forward even forced NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neil to root for her in the Rookie of the Year race.

After the thrilling game between the WNBA teams on Sunday, Shaq shared a post on his Instagram story where it was written “I’m calling it now Angel Reese will win Rookie of the Year.” 

Shaq backs Angel Reese Shaq backs Angel Reese (Image Source: IG/Shaquille O’Neal)

The two teams have faced off each other twice this season, with the Fever as the dominant side. However, in their third encounter, the game ended 88-87 in favor of the Chicago franchise, thanks to Reese’s excellence. She entertained the home crowd with her game-high 25 points and 16 rebounds, scoring her 8th consecutive double-double while setting a new rookie record in the league.

Reese is averaging 13.2 points, 11.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 steals this season. However, it shouldn’t be forgotten that Clark is putting up 16.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.7 steals per game. With over half the season left, the Indiana point guard could crush Reese’s dreams of bagging the ROTY title.

That was a bold move by the Lakers’ legend, considering Indiana’s No. 1 draft pick is moving in the same direction. However, there could be other reasons for O’Neil’s support apart from Reese’s.

Possible Reason for Shaquille O’Neal to Back Angel Reese

Shaquille O’Neal and Angel Reese have shared a strong bond even before she was drafted into the WNBA. Reese has often mentioned that the 4-time NBA champion is her mentor. Their connection originated from having the same roots, LSU.

Their bond cemented especially after the Reebok deal. Last year, the brand declared Shaq as its first president of basketball, and he lived up to his role by getting one of the top women athletes, Reese, on board.

One reason Reese agreed to be the face of basketball for Reebok was Shaq, as confirmed by the budding star. So, it can be easily stated that their connection could have played a huge role in O’Neal’s support for the Chicago forward.