Shaquille O’Neal Faces Backlash Over Insult to Angel Reese

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal ignited a firestorm after calling WNBA star Angel Reese an “idiot” during a live TV segment. The comment, made while discussing Reese’s recent media appearances, drew immediate outrage online. Viewers were stunned as Shaq’s words crossed the line from critique to personal attack.

“Angel Reese deserves respect. If Shaq can’t control his tongue, he needs to make it right,” a fan tweeted.

Advocacy groups like the NAACP and Women’s Sports Foundation condemned the comment, calling it “demeaning” and demanding a public apology.

Shaq later defended himself on Instagram Live, saying, “Maybe the word was strong,” but stopped short of apologizing—further fueling the backlash.

In contrast, Reese responded gracefully:

“I rise above negativity. I’m focused on basketball and my team,” she stated.

Sports icons like Tamika Catchings and Maya Moore called for respect and accountability in sports commentary.

As pressure mounts, fans wonder: Will Shaq apologize or double down? One thing’s clear—respect isn’t optional in modern sports media.