Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky Star striker and one of the most discussed names in women’s basketball, has again become the controversy center. This time, it is not only her performance on the ground, but the incessant criticism she received – both for her style of play and, shocking, the color of her skin. And Reese does not have it.
In a daring and shameless response, the WNBA recruit went to social networks and public interviews to call what it described as a “double standard” that follows it everywhere. “Stop incorporating things,” she published on X (formerly Twitter). “You don’t like the way I play? His statement came after a wave of negative comments after the last sky game, where Reese experienced an exceptional performance but has always become the target of online hatred.
The criticisms said that her physical style of play was “too aggressive”, while others suggested that she was “antactive”. But as Reese pointed out, these same features are often rented when they are displayed by other athletes – especially those who do not resemble him. “I play with passion. I am talking about my speech. I support it. But because I am a black woman with confidence, it is considered an attitude,” she said in an post-match interview. “I am tired of having to shrink just to be accepted.”
The situation has intensified when screenshots have surfaced the comments targeting not only the Reese game, but also its appearance. Trolls on social networks have made derogatory statements on its complexion and called it “intimidating”. Fans and athlete colleagues rallied behind her, using the hashtag #Protectblackwoman and congratulating her to be firm in front of hatred.
Reese, known as “Bayou Barbie”, has never moved from confrontation when it comes to defending his identity and his right to be his authentic self. From her NCAA championship days with LSU in her first season in the WNBA, she has always expressed the pressure on black female athletes – to be talented but humble, strong but calm, competitive but friendly.
“I’m not going to decrease my light simply because some people cannot manage it,” said Reese during a recent appearance with the media. “I am here to dominate, and I will continue to be me – on and off the field.”
His team, The Chicago Sky, has published a brief statement for Reese’s support, emphasizing the position of the organization against racism and discrimination based on sex. Meanwhile, sports analysts are divided: some argue that she must “mitigate” for the good of her image, while others applaud him for putting critical conversations under the spotlight.
One thing is clear – Angel Reese does not back down. Whether you love her or hate her, she makes sure that her voice is heard noisy and clear. And in today’s sporting world, it may be the kind of fire that the game needs.
