Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson shared his take on the budding rivalry between two WNBA rookies: top overall pick Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese.

The 64-year-old Magic Johnson answered questions from TMZ Sports while signing autographs and surrounded by numerous fans in Los Angeles.

“They’re doing great things for the league. Caitlin’s been great. Angel’s been great,” the five-time NBA champion said.

The rivalry between the two began in college, where Caitlin Clark had a decorated career with the Iowa Hawkeyes. At the same time, Angel Reese was instrumental in the LSU Tigers’ 2023 NCAA Division I championship run.

During the 2023 NCAA Division I women’s basketball tournament, LSU defeated Clark and the Hawkeyes in the title game. Reese taunted the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer as the game was out of reach.

Magic Johnson comments on physicality to Caitlin Clark

Johnson was also asked about the current discussion regarding whether the WNBA needs to protect Clark, given the increased physicality she has been experiencing in games.

In addition, the Hall of Famer was also asked for his advice for younger players.

“It’s all gonna work itself out.. just keep playing,” the 12-time NBA All-Star stated.

The three-time NBA Finals MVP eventually finished signing autographs and walked away.

Diana Taurasi called ‘selfish’ for Olympic team decision, should she step aside for Caitlin Clark?

Diana Taurasi, a towering figure in women’s basketball history, is facing heated criticism as she prepares for her sixth Olympics with the U.S. women’s national team in Paris, France. The almost 42-year-old Phoenix Mercury star’s inclusion has sparked a fierce debate, with many questioning whether her continued participation is overshadowing the rise of younger talents.

The controversy centers around the belief that Taurasi’s spot on the team should have gone to a younger player like Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick and a rising star in the basketball world. Fans and experts alike argue that it’s time for the next generation to shine on the global stage

Diana Taurasi, a towering figure in women’s basketball history, is facing heated criticism as she prepares for her sixth Olympics with the U.S. women’s national team in Paris, France. The almost 42-year-old Phoenix Mercury star’s inclusion has sparked a fierce debate, with many questioning whether her continued participation is overshadowing the rise of younger talents.

The controversy centers around the belief that Taurasi’s spot on the team should have gone to a younger player like Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 overall pick and a rising star in the basketball world. Fans and experts alike argue that it’s time for the next generation to shine on the global stage.

Caitlin Clark says she will use Team USA omission as motivation

“Taurasi has had many Olympic opportunities and is just selfish, at 40 years old, to take a spot from another deserving player,” one fan wrote, capturing the sentiment of many who believe it’s time for a change. The outcry reflects a broader frustration among those who see Taurasi’s continued presence as a barrier to new talent.

“Diana Taurasi wanting to attend a sixth Olympics at this point is just selfish,” another fan added, underscoring the growing impatience with the veteran’s longevity in the sport. The sentiment was echoed widely, with social media buzzing with similar accusations.

Is there an argument to be made about a youth-focused Olympic roster?

Even ESPN’s Frank Isola offered his perspective, suggesting a restructuring of Olympic basketball rosters. “Olympic basketball rosters should be U25 with three wild cards. It forces every nation to keep adding young players. Does Diana Taurasi winning a sixth gold medal really benefit the sport? Selecting Caitlin Clark makes more sense,” Isola argued, proposing a system that prioritizes the development of young athletes.

Despite the criticism, Taurasi’s legacy as one of basketball’s all-time greats is undeniable. Her achievements and contributions to the sport have set a high standard, but this new wave of discontent highlights a tension between celebrating past accomplishments and fostering future stars.

Olympic basketball rosters should be U25 with three wild cards. It forces every nation to keep adding young players.
(Also, does Diana Taurasi winning a sixth gold medal really benefit the sport? I get it, it benefits her. Selecting Caitlin Clark makes more sense.)

— Frank Isola (@TheFrankIsola) June 9, 2024