NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is under fire for remarks he made about WNBA star Angel Reese during an appearance on her podcast, Unapologetically Angel. The conversation took an uncomfortable turn when O’Neal commented on Reese’s outfit from a recent event. His remarks, particularly about the “little shorts” she wore during the Wild ‘N Out Live Tour, didn’t sit well with many listeners. While Reese laughed it off, her reaction suggested she may not have been entirely amused.
O’Neal, 52, continued the discussion, emphasizing how popular Reese could become if she played in the same attire. He also complimented her looks, calling her “gorgeous” and stating that the WNBA is full of beautiful women. Many on social media found his comments inappropriate, with users criticizing him for making remarks that some deemed sexualizing and uncomfortable, especially given the significant age difference between the two. Several fans pointed out that O’Neal’s children are older than Reese, making the exchange even more unsettling.
Social media erupted with criticism, with users describing O’Neal’s comments as “creepy” and “disturbing.” Some accused him of ignoring Reese’s discomfort and continuing the conversation despite her attempts to move past it. Critics expressed disappointment in O’Neal, a widely respected basketball figure, for making comments that seemed to cross a line. Others highlighted the broader issue of young female athletes often being subjected to inappropriate remarks from older male figures in sports.
Despite the backlash, Reese and O’Neal have shared a close relationship for some time. Reese has previously referred to him as a father figure, and O’Neal has publicly supported her career. As the president of Reebok Basketball, he played a role in signing Reese to a major endorsement deal with the brand. Additionally, O’Neal has been vocal about advocating for higher salaries in the WNBA, arguing that female players deserve better compensation for their talent and contribution to the game.
While some fans believe the controversy is being blown out of proportion, others argue that O’Neal’s words highlight a larger issue within the sports world. The incident has reignited discussions about the way female athletes are treated in professional settings, particularly when it comes to how their appearances are discussed compared to their male counterparts. Whether O’Neal will address the criticism remains to be seen, but the situation has certainly sparked a broader conversation about respect and professionalism in sports.