Recently, Shaquille O’Neal shared his candid thoughts about Caitlin Clark, and it took everyone by surprise. For Angel Reese, who has long considered Shaq her biggest supporter, hearing his praise for Clark was likely one of the most painful experiences she could face. Let’s be honest: it was probably the most embarrassing moment of her career.

Shaq wasn’t just another sports commentator throwing compliments around; he was her staunch ally. Throughout Angel’s journey at LSU, Shaq consistently championed her, believing she was destined for greatness. However, after witnessing Caitlin’s meteoric rise and exceptional performance over the past year, Shaq shifted his allegiance, openly declaring himself a member of “Team Clark.” He even flaunted a Clark jersey, which must have felt like a betrayal to Reese.

When Angel had Shaq on her show, she likely anticipated a moment of celebration for her achievements. Instead, he redirected the spotlight to Caitlin, leaving Angel to navigate the viral fallout from Shaq’s unexpected and sometimes harsh admiration for Clark.

But why does Shaq’s newfound admiration sting so much for Angel? It’s not just that he’s an analyst praising another player; it’s that he was once her biggest fan. For Angel, Shaq had been a guiding light, helping her through the negativity and online trolling that often accompanies fame. He encouraged her to focus on her game and rise above the noise, reminding her how fortunate she was to be in such a competitive league.

Angel had always looked up to Shaq, valuing his mentorship. He urged her to work harder and play with passion, insisting that her talent could win over even her fiercest critics. But then Caitlin Clark entered the scene, showcasing a playing style and skill set that left Shaq impressed. Initially skeptical, Shaq’s opinion shifted dramatically after Clark’s standout performances in critical games.

This unexpected shift from Shaq highlights the unpredictable nature of sports fandom and loyalty. For Angel Reese, grappling with this change in Shaq’s support must be incredibly challenging. As the competition heats up, both players are set to face even more scrutiny, and it will be fascinating to see how their careers unfold in the coming seasons.