Magic Johnson Says Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese 'Remind Me a Lot' of His Rivalry with Larry Bird

Magic Johnson recently drew a compelling parallel between the budding rivalry of WNBA rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese and his own storied competition with Larry Bird. Johnson and Bird, icons of the 1980s NBA era, were the faces of the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics, respectively, and their clashes became legendary. Johnson, now 64, sees a similar dynamic playing out between Clark and Reese, who have quickly become must-watch players in women's basketball.
In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), Johnson shared his admiration for the young stars, writing, "When I think about Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese’s impact on the game, they remind me a lot of Larry Bird and me." He emphasized the excitement and viewership their matchups have generated, drawing a direct comparison to his and Bird’s influence on basketball decades ago.
Johnson reminisced about his first encounter with Bird during the NCAA Championship game between Indiana State and Michigan State, which set an all-time viewership record for men’s basketball. Similarly, the 2023 NCAA Championship matchup between Clark and Reese, as well as their 2024 Elite Eight games, achieved the highest viewership records for women's college basketball at the time.
Clark, a standout from the University of Iowa, and Reese, who shined at Louisiana State University, have consistently delivered thrilling performances that keep fans eagerly anticipating their next showdown. Their competitive spirit on the court evokes memories of Johnson and Bird's intense battles, which defined an era of NBA basketball.
Despite the fierce competition, Clark and Reese maintain a professional relationship off the court. In a press conference last April, Clark addressed their dynamic, noting that while their matchups are highly competitive, the rivalry does not extend into their personal lives.
Johnson’s comparison underscores the growing prominence and excitement surrounding women’s basketball, highlighting how Clark and Reese are not only following in the footsteps of past legends but also forging their own paths in the sport.

[@michaelengland6534]

If Magic is right, a long and eventful ride! Let's hope for the best!

[@robertpalermo6305]

Caitlin Clark can beat Angel Reese at any part of the game

[@firstsergeant9361]

Caitlin Clark COULD be compared to a female version of Larry Bird but Angel Reese is NOT ANYWHERE CLOSE to being the female verison of Magic Johnson. She's a dime a dozen type of WNBA player and not a game changer. Sure she's pretty good but she's not on Caitlin Clark's level and that is what makes these people so jealous of her.