Teammate Defends Angel Reese Amid Online Criticism, Urges Respect for Young Star

Teammate Defends Angel Reese Amid Online Criticism, Urges Respect for Young Star

One of Angel Reese’s teammates voiced strong support for the emotional star following the Chicago Sky’s recent defeat to the New York Liberty. The game saw the Sky suffer a significant loss, placing them at a disappointing 2-6 record this season.

The New York Liberty has made headlines by starting the season with an impressive 9-0 record. Following the game, Reese faced questions regarding the intense online scrutiny she has encountered.

During the press conference, Reese became visibly emotional while responding to inquiries about the pressures of public perception. Ariel Atkins, a teammate who previously played for the Washington Mystics, quickly came to Reese’s aid.

Atkins expressed her thoughts emphatically, stating, “Can I say something? This is a 23-year-old kid, and the amount of criticism she faces daily is overwhelming, yet she continues to show up and give her best. So, while we appreciate any questions about our team’s performance on the court, all the other nonsense is just irrelevant to us.”

Atkins highlighted the challenges Reese has faced, saying, “We are here to play basketball, and we’re going through a tough time. This young woman carries the weight of the world on her shoulders, and it is important for her to have support. If she doesn’t build a wall, the pressures from outside will break her down. Not only is it about her appearance, but it’s also about her dignity and how she presents herself in public. She knows her identity and should not be pressured to change for anyone. Let the questions focus on basketball; that is where they should remain. Her crown is heavy, and she deserves respect.”

In the backdrop of this supportive response, Reese has been engaged in a burgeoning rivalry with star player Caitlin Clark, as well as facing hostility from some Iowa Hawkeyes and Fever fans. Last season, Reese claimed she encountered racial slurs from both factions, escalating tensions further.

The rivalry became more intense during the 2023 championship when Reese provocatively taunted Clark with a “you can’t see me” gesture in the closing moments of the game. This incident not only highlighted the competitive spirit between the two players but also ignited discussions about the visibility and respect for women’s basketball, with Reese asserting that fans are drawn to the game for both players—not just one.

In their first matchup of the current season, a significant incident occurred when Clark committed a flagrant foul against Reese. This altercation led to Reese needing to be restrained from confronting Clark, showcasing the high emotions involved in their rivalry. After the game, Reese took to TikTok to express her feelings of being “unsafe” while competing against Clark in Indiana.

The WNBA took the allegations seriously, launching an investigation into reported hateful comments directed at Reese by Fever fans. However, the league’s findings ultimately concluded that these claims were “not substantiated,” leading to discussions on how online and in-person fan interactions can impact player mental health and safety.

This season, Reese has been performing admirably, averaging 10.1 points and an impressive 12.1 rebounds per game. Her resilience amidst adversity has made her a focal point of discussion both on and off the court, and her teammate’s call for respect serves as a reminder of the pressures young athletes face in today’s sports landscape.

Atkins’ remarks resonate not only as a defense of Reese but as a broader commentary on the treatment of female athletes in professional sports. Athletes often endure relentless scrutiny that can affect their psychological well-being. As female sports gain more attention, it becomes vital for media, fans, and other stakeholders to foster a more supportive environment, promoting respect over criticism.

As the season progresses, fans and pundits alike will surely continue to watch Reese’s trajectory. The challenges she faces reflect larger societal issues regarding how athletes—particularly women—are perceived. Supportive voices like Atkins’ can help cultivate a culture of respect and understanding, ensuring that young stars like Reese flourish in their careers while being celebrated for their talent and dedication.

The story of Angel Reese is not just about her performance on the court; it encapsulates the emotional and mental struggles faced by athletes today. As the sports community rallies around her, the hope remains that respect and appreciation for each player become the standard going forward.