Angel Reese Opens Up About Disrespect, Racism, and Mental Health Struggles in the WNBA: “They Don’t Respect Me Just Because I’m Black”

In a moment that has reverberated throughout the world of women’s basketball, Angel Reese, one of the WNBA’s most promising young stars, has taken a courageous stand by speaking out against the disrespect and racial bias she says she has faced since joining the league. The Chicago Sky rookie, known for her powerful presence on the court and her outspoken advocacy off it, recently revealed that the negativity and lack of respect from both the WNBA community and the public have taken a significant toll on her mental health—so much so that she has even considered retirement.

Reese’s revelation came during a post-game interview that quickly went viral. Fighting back tears, she addressed the mounting criticism and subtle slights she has endured, saying, “They don’t respect me just because I’m Black.” Her emotional words struck a chord with fans and fellow players alike, shining a light on the persistent challenges faced by Black women in professional sports.

The pressures Reese faces are not new, but her willingness to speak openly about them is both rare and important. Since her days as a collegiate superstar at LSU, Reese has been in the spotlight—not only for her athletic achievements but also for her unapologetic confidence and willingness to challenge the status quo. Her transition to the WNBA was highly anticipated, and she has delivered on the court, posting impressive stats and quickly becoming one of the league’s most recognizable faces. However, the scrutiny and criticism have followed her at every step.

In recent weeks, Reese has found herself at the center of a media firestorm. Social media has been rife with negative commentary, some of it overtly racist, and much of it questioning her attitude, leadership, and even her place in the league. Despite her best efforts to focus on basketball and her team, Reese admits that the constant barrage of negativity has become overwhelming. “It’s hard to keep going when you feel like no matter what you do, you’re not good enough for some people,” she said.

The WNBA, like many professional sports leagues, has long struggled with issues of race and representation. While the league is celebrated for its diversity and progressive values, Black women athletes still face unique challenges—both on and off the court. Reese’s experience is a stark reminder that, despite progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all players are treated with respect and dignity.

For Reese, the lack of respect has come in many forms. From subtle slights by commentators and fans to more overt displays of bias, she has had to navigate a landscape that often seems stacked against her. “Sometimes it feels like no matter what I do, it’s never enough. If I’m confident, I’m called arrogant. If I show emotion, I’m labeled as aggressive. But if someone else does the same thing, it’s called passion,” Reese explained.

The emotional toll of these experiences has been significant. During her interview, Reese choked up as she spoke about the impact on her mental health. “I just want to play basketball and inspire people. But it’s hard when you feel like you’re constantly fighting just to be seen and respected,” she said. In a moment that left fans in tears, Reese uttered five words that captured her pain and vulnerability: “I just want to belong here.”

The response from the basketball community has been swift and supportive. Teammates, coaches, and fellow players across the league have voiced their solidarity with Reese, praising her courage and calling for greater accountability within the WNBA. “Angel is a phenomenal player and an even better person. She deserves all the respect in the world, and we need to do better as a league and as fans,” said one veteran player.

Mental health has become an increasingly important topic in professional sports, and Reese’s willingness to share her struggles has sparked a broader conversation about the pressures faced by athletes—particularly women of color. Sports psychologists note that the intersection of racism, sexism, and the high-stakes environment of professional athletics can create unique mental health challenges. “Athletes like Angel Reese are under immense pressure to perform, but they also have to deal with societal biases that can be incredibly damaging to their self-esteem and well-being,” explained Dr. Karen Williams, a leading expert in sports psychology.

The WNBA has responded to Reese’s comments by reaffirming its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and player welfare. In a statement, the league said, “The WNBA stands with Angel Reese and all our players. We are committed to fostering an environment where every athlete feels respected, valued, and supported.” However, some critics argue that more concrete action is needed, including better training for officials, stronger policies against racial abuse, and increased mental health resources for players.

For many fans, Reese’s story is a call to action. Social media has been flooded with messages of support, with hashtags like #RespectAngelReese and #BlackWomenInSports trending nationwide. Fans have shared their own experiences of racism and exclusion, highlighting the broader societal issues that Reese’s story brings to the forefront.

Despite the challenges, Reese remains determined to continue her journey. She has emphasized that her love for the game and her desire to inspire the next generation of athletes are what keep her going. “I know there are young girls watching me, girls who look like me, who need to see that it’s possible to succeed—even when it’s hard,” she said.

The WNBA season continues, but the conversation sparked by Angel Reese’s honesty is far from over. Her willingness to speak out has not only shined a light on the reality of racism and mental health struggles in professional sports but has also inspired countless others to share their own stories. As the league moves forward, many hope that Reese’s courage will lead to lasting change—both on the court and off.

In the end, Angel Reese’s story is about more than basketball. It’s about resilience, authenticity, and the ongoing fight for respect and equality. As she continues to break barriers and defy expectations, one thing is clear: Angel Reese belongs in the WNBA, and her voice matters now more than ever.