Stephen A. Smith Blasts Angel Reese: “Grow Up or Get Out of the Way”

In a fiery First Take segment, ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith unleashed a scathing critique of Angel Reese, labeling her “a bully in victim’s clothing.” His rant quickly went viral, amassing over 12 million views and sparking debate across the sports world.

“She’s not a victim,” Smith declared. “She’s doing the targeting—and people are tired of it.”

The backlash stemmed from Reese’s recent on-court antics against Caitlin Clark, including mocking gestures and unsportsmanlike behavior. Smith accused Reese of leaning on narrative instead of performance:

“You want to be great? Act like it.”

Clark, as usual, stayed silent, letting her game speak—23 points, 10 assists. Reese, on the other hand, was benched in the fourth quarter.

Fans and even some players applauded Smith’s candor.

“We’re tired of the drama overshadowing the basketball,” one veteran said anonymously.

While some, like Jemele Hill, questioned the racial double standard, others insisted it’s about accountability. Smith’s message was clear:

“This isn’t social media. This is the pros. If you can’t grow up—get out of the way.”