Shaquille O'Neal, the retired NBA superstar, has stirred controversy after commenting on WNBA player Angel Reese's attire on his podcast.
Shaquille O’Neal attracted backlash after making remarks about Angel Reese’s clothing during his podcast, focusing on her physical appearance in a way that sparked online criticism, People reported.
During an episode of O'Neal's podcast on October 24, he brought up a discussion about the possibility of lowering rims in the WNBA. In this context, he referenced the shorts worn by Angel Reese, a rising star in women's basketball, which she had on at a recent public appearance.
Reese was featured on O'Neal's podcast, "Unapologetically Angel," where she was visibly uncomfortable with O’Neal’s focus on her attire. As the conversation unfolded, O'Neal imagined Reese dunking in the mentioned shorts, suggesting it would boost merchandise sales.
O'Neal's remarks continued as he repeated mentions of the "little shorts" that Reese had worn. He stressed the point by stating how attractive she appeared in them, which could lead to increased T-shirt sales, again linking her physical appeal to commercial gains. This line of commentary did not sit well with social media users who later expressed their discontent.
The discomfort was evident when Reese, attempting to deflect the conversation, rolled her eyes and let out a string of "Alrights" in a bid to change the subject. O'Neal, however, persisted with his remarks, attempting to compliment Reese by calling her "gorgeous," which only compounded the awkwardness of the discussion.
O'Neal's comments spurred a flurry of negative reactions across various social media platforms, where users criticized him for focusing inappropriately on Reese's attire and appearance. Many highlighted the inappropriate nature of his comments considering their age difference and his previously stated father-like role in her life.
His remarks were seen not just as a breach of professionalism but also of personal trust, as Reese had previously described O'Neal as a father figure and a supportive presence, someone who cared for her beyond the basketball court.
Reese has acknowledged O'Neal's positive influence in her life multiple times, describing him as a foundational support during tough times. "He just gets it, and there’s not a more perfect person for me to be tight with," Reese said in an earlier interview, praising the way O'Neal supported her personal and professional growth without conflating it with her performances on the court. "
Further complicating the public's reception of O'Neal's comments is his role in Reese's life. Reese not only looked up to him as a mentor but also as someone who valued her well-being over her athletic achievements.
Following the backlash, reporters directed requests for comment to O'Neal's representative, who has yet to respond. The public’s call for an official apology or at least an acknowledgment of the controversy reflects higher expectations for figures like O'Neal, who serve as role models to many.
The event sparks a broader discussion about how sports media and society portray and treat female athletes, emphasizing the need for greater sensitivity and respect for their professional and personal identities. How figures like O'Neal handle such incidents moving forward could set important precedents.
This episode may spark conversations about gender respect in sports and the responsibilities of high-profile sports figures to set the right example. It highlights the growing public demand for more awareness and change toward equal and respectful treatment across all levels of sports and entertainment.
