Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky’s talented rookie, faced significant backlash after posting a picture of herself in a dress on New Year’s Day. What was supposed to be a celebratory moment turned sour when the 22-year-old athlete received harsh online criticism for her fashion choice. The negative reactions were swift and intense, leading Reese to delete her Instagram account in frustration.
Her decision to step away from social media sparked an outpouring of support from fans who believe that Reese’s only “crime” was confidently expressing herself. A fan echoed the sentiments of many who believe Reese is being unfairly targeted for simply being unapologetically herself.
“Protect women in sports. Protect women, period,” one fan wrote.
This incident has become a focal point in the ongoing conversation about the double standards that women, especially women of color, face in sports. While male athletes are rarely judged for their fashion choices or confidence, female athletes like Reese often find themselves under intense scrutiny. Critics of Reese’s critics argue that the backlash she faced was rooted in both gender and racial biases. As one fan pointed out, Reese’s “only crime was being confident and unapologetic about her success.”
Reese is no stranger to public scrutiny. From her college career at LSU to her recent achievements in the WNBA, she has been both celebrated and criticized for her bold personality and on-court success. But the treatment she received over her dress highlights a larger issue: women in sports often face a level of judgment that their male counterparts do not.
The incident has sparked calls for change. Fans are demanding a cultural shift that treats women athletes with the same respect as men, focusing on their skills rather than their appearance. As Reese continues to rise in the WNBA, the support for her—and the call to “protect women in sports”—is only growing louder.
Join the Community and Be a Part of the Conversation
You must be logged in or registered to post a comment.