In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the sports world and ignited a fierce national debate, NBA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal is facing widespread condemnation after referring to WNBA rising star Angel Reese as a “f–king idiot” during a recent podcast appearance. The comment, made while discussing player conduct and media presence, has sparked a tidal wave of backlash from fans, fellow athletes, and civil rights organizations, with many calling O’Neal’s words not only disrespectful but emblematic of deeper issues facing women—particularly Black women—in professional sports.

A Shocking Statement Reverberates

O’Neal’s controversial remark came during an episode of his podcast, where the four-time NBA champion was asked about the increasing visibility of WNBA players and their interactions with the media. While discussing Angel Reese, who has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball thanks to her talent and unapologetic personality, O’Neal abruptly dismissed her approach, stating, “She’s a f–king idiot if she thinks that’s the way to build a legacy.”

The explicit language and harsh tone immediately drew gasps from listeners and quickly went viral on social media. Within hours, clips of the podcast were circulating widely, with the hashtag #RespectAngelReese trending on Twitter and Instagram. Many fans expressed disbelief that a figure as influential as O’Neal would target a young Black female athlete with such vitriol.

Social Media Erupts; Athletes Rally Behind Reese

The backlash was swift and intense. Noted sports journalist Jemele Hill tweeted, “Calling a young Black woman in sports that name isn’t tough love—it’s abuse.” Her words were echoed by countless others in the sports community, who saw O’Neal’s comment as part of a troubling pattern of dismissing and belittling women, especially women of color, for their confidence and ambition.

Reese’s teammates on the Chicago Sky released a rare joint statement defending her character and leadership: “Angel is one of the hardest working, most dedicated players we know. Her passion for the game and her teammates is unmatched. We stand with her and against any attempt to tear her down.”

Other WNBA stars, including A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, also voiced their support, praising Reese for her resilience and calling for greater respect for women’s basketball players. “We need to uplift each other, not tear each other apart,” Stewart said in a post that quickly went viral.

Civil Rights Groups Step In

The controversy soon spilled beyond the sports world. Major civil rights organizations, including the NAACP and the National Council of Women in Sports, issued statements demanding that O’Neal publicly apologize for his comments. “Words matter, especially when they come from those with influence,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson. “It’s imperative that we hold public figures accountable when they perpetuate harmful stereotypes or demean the accomplishments of Black women.”

The National Council of Women in Sports echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of fostering a culture of respect and inclusion in athletics. “Female athletes, particularly Black women, face unique challenges and discrimination. Comments like O’Neal’s only reinforce the barriers they work so hard to overcome,” their statement read.

A Legacy at Risk

For decades, Shaquille O’Neal has been known as much for his larger-than-life personality and humor as for his dominance on the basketball court. He has cultivated a reputation as a mentor to younger athletes and a champion of charitable causes. However, this latest incident has cast a shadow over his legacy, raising uncomfortable questions about the responsibilities that come with fame and influence.

O’Neal’s initial response to the backlash did little to quell the outrage. In a brief Instagram post, he wrote, “I stand by what I said—but maybe I could’ve said it better.” The lack of a direct apology or acknowledgment of the hurt caused only fueled further criticism, with many accusing O’Neal of doubling down rather than taking accountability.

A Larger Conversation About Gender and Race in Sports

The incident has reignited a broader conversation about the ways in which Black women are treated in professional sports and the media. Studies have shown that female athletes, especially those of color, are often subjected to harsher scrutiny and criticism than their male counterparts. The reaction to Reese’s confidence and outspokenness has been compared to the treatment of other prominent Black women in sports, from Serena Williams to Simone Biles.

“Black women in sports are expected to be perfect, humble, and grateful—any deviation is met with disproportionate backlash,” said Dr. Kimberly Foster, a sociologist specializing in race and gender. “Shaquille O’Neal’s comment is a reminder of how far we still have to go in changing the culture around women’s sports.”

What Comes Next?

As calls for accountability grow louder, many are watching to see if O’Neal will issue a full apology and take steps to make amends. Some have suggested that he use this moment as an opportunity to engage in dialogue about the challenges facing female athletes and to become an advocate for change.

For Angel Reese, the support from her teammates, fans, and the broader sports community has been a source of strength. “I know who I am and what I stand for,” she said in a statement. “I will continue to play with passion and represent my team and community with pride.”

The controversy has underscored the power of words and the need for greater empathy and respect in sports. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the world is watching, and the stakes—for O’Neal, for Reese, and for the future of women’s sports—have never been higher.