WNBA star Angel Reese has shared her concerns about the media’s influence on her public image and career, stating she would rather pay fines than speak with reporters. In a recent interview on her podcast, ‘Unapologetically Angel,’ Reese explained that she is terrified of the media’s ability to twist her statements into controversies, even for innocent remarks. She described the situation as a constant challenge, where even a simple question can be turned into a contentious issue. Reese’s frustration with the media has been exacerbated by past incidents where her quotes were taken out of context, leading to widespread misunderstandings and even suspensions for her team.
Reese, who plays for the Chicago Sky, has become a central figure in women’s basketball due to her rivalry with Caitlin Clark. The rivalry intensified after the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball championship, when Reese, then a member of LSU, taunted Clark by pointing to her ring finger. Since then, Reese has been at the center of multiple controversies, often fueled by media misrepresentation of her comments. One notable incident occurred in the lead-up to the 2025 WNBA season, when Reese made comments to the Chicago Tribune about her team’s poor performance. The quotes were taken out of context, leading to a backlash and a subsequent apology. Reese later addressed the issue, stating that the language was misunderstood and that she did not intend to criticize her teammates.
Reese has also faced allegations related to hate speech, particularly concerning her rivalry with Caitlin Clark. In May, the WNBA launched an investigation into ‘hateful’ comments made against her during a game against Clark’s Connecticut Fever. Reese did not provide specific details about the incident, but she emphasized that the league has supported her through the process. The investigation concluded without finding sufficient evidence to support the allegations. Despite this, Reese has continued to accuse Clark’s fans of racism and alleged that they created AI-generated explicit images of her and sent them to her family members. These accusations have further complicated her relationship with the media and her public persona.
The media’s role in shaping the narratives around Reese’s controversies has been significant. Her statements are often reported in ways that highlight conflict rather than context, contributing to her public perception. Reese’s frustration with this dynamic has led her to express a desire for greater control over how her words are presented, even at the cost of financial penalties. As she continues her career, the media’s influence on her and other athletes remains a critical topic of discussion within the league and among fans.