ALL-STAR BETRAYAL: Sandy Brondello Responds After Caitlin Clark Quietly Traded Cheryl Reeve From Roster — “This Shouldn’t Have Happened”
ALL-STAR BETRAYAL: Sandy Brondello Responds After Caitlin Clark Quietly Traded Cheryl Reeve From Roster — “This Shouldn’t Have Happened”
In a shocking twist that’s sending ripples across the WNBA and beyond, Caitlin Clark — the rookie sensation who’s dominated headlines all season — has been accused of orchestrating a quiet but controversial move ahead of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game: removing veteran coach Cheryl Reeve from her roster.
The fallout? Immediate and fierce.
Sandy Brondello, head coach of the New York Liberty and a longtime ally of Reeve, didn’t mince words when asked about the decision.
“This shouldn’t have happened,” Brondello told reporters Monday night. “It’s not just about coaching choices. It’s about respect. And right now, I’m seeing a lack of it.”
Sources close to the situation say that Clark, recently voted as an All-Star captain for Team Clark, exercised her player privilege to suggest coaching changes for her team. While the league has always allowed captains limited input in assembling the coaching staff, this level of influence is unprecedented — especially coming from a rookie.
“Not a Personal Attack,” But…
Insiders maintain that Clark never directly “fired” Reeve, but instead requested a different coaching direction, favoring a younger assistant coach she’s reportedly comfortable with. Still, to fans and league veterans alike, the optics are brutal: Cheryl Reeve, a four-time WNBA champion and one of the most respected minds in the sport, pushed aside by a 23-year-old in her first All-Star appearance.
Reeve herself has remained composed, only saying in a statement:
“I support the All-Star experience being about the players. If this is the path the league and players want, I’ll respect that. But I won’t pretend it doesn’t sting.”
A Divided League?
What’s emerging now is a split within the league — and the fans. Some argue that Clark, as the face of the WNBA’s next generation, has the right to shape her experience and challenge the old guard. Others accuse her of ego, inexperience, and disrespect.
Social media exploded overnight, with hashtags like #JusticeForCheryl and #ClarkGate trending on X (formerly Twitter). Even former players like Sue Bird weighed in:
“Caitlin’s a phenomenal talent, no doubt. But All-Star is about honoring those who built the game. You don’t sideline a legend like Cheryl Reeve without backlash.”
What Now?
The WNBA has yet to officially comment on the coaching controversy, though commissioner Cathy Engelbert is reportedly “monitoring the situation closely.” Meanwhile, Team Wilson — led by reigning MVP A’ja Wilson — is reportedly considering a public show of solidarity with Reeve at the All-Star tip-off.
As for Clark, she’s keeping silent — for now. But with the spotlight only getting hotter and her every move scrutinized, fans are wondering: Has the pressure of instant superstardom finally gotten to her?
One thing’s for sure: This All-Star Game will be remembered — not just for dazzling plays, but for one of the most polarizing power moves in WNBA history.
