NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is facing backlash after making controversial remarks about the WNBA during an episode of rising star Angel Reese’s podcast, “Unapologetically Angel.” O’Neal’s suggestion to lower the rims to allow more dunking in the women’s league, coupled with awkward comments about Reese’s appearance, sparked outrage on social media.
The conversation took a turn when Reese, highlighted the significant disparities in viewership and wages between the WNBA and NBA. O’Neal, responded by proposing a physical change to the game, stating that lowering the rims would enhance entertainment value by allowing more dunks.
“A pretty girl dunking on the rim, I’m watching that all the time,” O’Neal said, implying that such visuals would attract more viewers.
Reese pushed back against O’Neal’s comments, expressing frustration with men offering unsolicited suggestions about women’s sports. She pointed out that there are already women in the WNBA capable of dunking at the current rim height.
The conversation took an uncomfortable turn when O’Neal began discussing Reese’s physical appearance, referencing her attire during a previous event.
“Imagine you in the same little shorts you had on at the ‘Wild ‘N Out’ show, dunking,” he said, suggesting it would boost merchandise sales for the league.
Reese visibly rolled her eyes and laughed awkwardly, indicating her discomfort with the direction of the conversation.
Social media users swiftly criticized O’Neal’s comments, with many expressing dismay at the age difference between him and Reese.
“Shaq is 52 years old. Angel Reese is 22 years old. U can tell Angel feels betrayed. She thought Shaq was gonna be more like family and is realizing he just another lonely perv. F**kin disgusting,” one user remarked.
O’Neal and Reese share a mentor-mentee relationship, having both attended LSU before entering their respective professional careers. Reese has previously described O’Neal as a “father figure,” appreciating his support during her journey.
“He’s super inspiring to me. He’s so genuine, he’s been there for me through tough times,” Reese said. “He just gets it, and there’s not a more perfect person for me to be tight with…He doesn’t care about me as a player, he cares about me as a person.”
O’Neal’s recent comments seem to contradict the supportive dynamic they once shared, making them even more troubling.
As the WNBA continues to grow, it is crucial for figures like O’Neal to recognize the impact of their words and support women in sports in a manner that respects their talent and contributions. The ongoing challenges women face in sports, particularly regarding respect and representation, require a united effort to foster a respectful environment that uplifts female athletes rather than reducing them to mere spectacles.
