According to Stephen A. Smith, the response to Angel Reese's taunting of Caitlin Clark in the national championship game has a racial undertone.
Smith, on ESPN's "First Take," expressed admiration for Clark's potential to become the best women's basketball player ever, but held her accountable for her actions.
Smith labeled Caitlin Clark as an instigator for her taunts and referenced her behavior toward Raven Johnson while suggesting race influenced the differing reactions.
Smith pointed out a racial double standard where Clark's taunts were celebrated, but Reese's response was criticized, and Reese confirmed the context in her postgame interview.