(ThyBlackMan.com) The world of basketball has once again found itself in a swirl of controversy, but this time, it’s not because of an on-court rivalry or an epic game-winning shot. Instead, it’s NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal who’s caught in the crossfire. Recently, Shaq made some eyebrow-raising comments on an episode of Unapologetically Angel, a podcast hosted by WNBA star Angel Reese. His choice of words sparked widespread backlash, leaving fans and the sports community questioning if Shaq’s advice for the WNBA was really about elevating the game – or if he was subtly playing into an uncomfortable narrative.
A Mentor Turned Questionable?
Shaquille O’Neal’s relationship with Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky superstar and college basketball phenom from LSU, seemed like a mentor-student dynamic that had fans excited. Reese, who idolizes Shaq for his legendary career, shares his LSU roots. That connection developed into what many hoped would be a respectful and professional relationship, centered around shared experiences and the guidance Reese could receive from one of the NBA’s greatest players.
But in the most recent podcast episode, Shaq’s “advice” came off as anything but professional. When discussing the WNBA and his long-standing opinion that the league should consider lowering its rims to attract more attention and facilitate dunking, Shaq made a reference that left Angel and fans alike cringing.
“Imagine you in the same lil’ shorts you had on at the Wild ‘N Out show dunking,” Shaq commented. Reese looked visibly uncomfortable and attempted to steer the conversation back on track, but Shaq continued, adding, “The same little shorts you had on at Wild ‘N Out… I’m just saying.”
For someone who should understand the impact of his words, especially around someone he mentors, Shaq’s comment seemed uncharacteristic – and, quite frankly, unsettling.
Angel Reese got upset with Shaq after he kept fantasizing about her Dunking in the tiny shorts she wore at the Wild ‘n Out event ? pic.twitter.com/LHaDJeOSTY
— Rain Drops Media (@Raindropsmedia1) October 26, 2024
Social Media Reacts: The Internet Calls Out Shaq’s “Creepy” Comments
When clips of the conversation hit social media, the backlash was immediate. Fans were quick to point out how Reese appeared thrown off by Shaq’s comments, and many criticized the former NBA star for what they viewed as a moment of unprofessionalism, if not something more concerning. Comments flooded platforms, with people saying they were disappointed in Shaq for crossing a line.
One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, “I’m glad she gave bruh that energy cause wth man.” Another fan pointed out, “Home girl is visibly uncomfortable,” echoing the collective discomfort felt by viewers. Shaq’s remarks, which could have been framed around the game and its growth, instead seemed to focus on Reese’s appearance and attire – a direction that many felt was inappropriate, especially from a figure she considers a mentor.
“Shaq should know better,” a third user wrote. “That was just weird; can’t even lie.”
The public’s reaction raises questions about how male figures in positions of power within the sports world speak to and about female athletes, particularly young women like Angel Reese who are just beginning to navigate their way through fame and public scrutiny.
Shaq’s History with Women: The Trend of Dating Younger Women
Shaquille O’Neal is no stranger to being in the limelight, but his personal life has also seen him receive his fair share of criticism. Over the years, Shaq has been romantically linked with younger women, and while that’s not entirely uncommon in the world of celebrities, some are beginning to wonder if his public persona is shifting from respected sports legend to something more stereotypical – the “creepy older guy” trope that no one wants to see play out.
Fans of the NBA and WNBA alike had hoped Shaq’s support for the women’s league would be genuinely about the game itself. However, his remark towards Reese seemed to fit into a pattern that has raised eyebrows in the past: a fascination with younger women that some believe is starting to influence his commentary and public behavior.
In recent years, Shaq has become known for dating women significantly younger than himself, drawing mixed reactions from fans. Many admire his candor and confidence, but some feel that it’s starting to border on uncomfortable territory. For Shaq, who has always been outspoken, being clear about his intentions – whether it’s about supporting women’s basketball or anything else – is crucial to avoid crossing that line. His comments toward Reese, however, suggest that he may not always recognize when he’s doing so.
When Mentorship Turns Questionable: The Importance of Boundaries
Shaq’s comments also speak to the broader issue of mentorship boundaries. In the world of sports, where young athletes often idolize older ones, maintaining respect and professionalism is paramount. For Angel Reese, Shaq represents someone she can look up to – an icon with unparalleled success and influence. But when someone she respects brings up her appearance or attire in a way that seems sexualized, it can muddy the waters of their professional dynamic and leave a lasting impact.
Comments about attire, especially in the context Shaq presented, carry weight beyond a harmless joke. They can lead to questions about whether women’s sports are viewed through a professional lens or merely for entertainment. Shaq’s remarks toward Reese seem to contradict the very spirit of women’s sports, implying that her athletic achievements alone are not enough to draw attention – a suggestion that’s troubling at best and damaging at worst.
Why Shaq’s “Lower the Rim” Argument Misses the Point
Shaquille O’Neal has long been vocal about his belief that the WNBA would benefit from lowering the rim, enabling more players to dunk and, in his opinion, making the game more entertaining for fans. He has argued that lowering the rim would allow women to play a style closer to what fans see in the NBA, thus attracting a larger audience.
However, the issue isn’t as simple as Shaq makes it out to be. Many WNBA players and fans argue that altering the game to resemble the NBA only diminishes the unique style and skills that make women’s basketball special. Players like Reese are known for their prowess, hard work, and competitiveness. Suggesting that their games need to be changed to draw attention feels dismissive to those achievements.
Instead of focusing on the actual game and players’ skills, Shaq’s comments about Reese’s shorts sidetrack the conversation into uncomfortable territory. Angel Reese and her colleagues don’t need to be objectified to be noticed – they are incredible athletes, period. The WNBA’s growing popularity has shown that fans are coming to see high-quality basketball, and Reese’s presence in the league is a testament to that progress.
A Reminder for Athletes Like Shaq: Focus on the Game, Not the Gaze
In recent years, more athletes have spoken out against being objectified or scrutinized for their appearances rather than their skills. Athletes like Reese shouldn’t have to deal with comments that make them feel uncomfortable, especially from those they respect. When someone as influential as Shaq shifts the focus from the game to superficial aspects, it detracts from everything women athletes work so hard to build.
Shaq’s comments were more than just a moment of poor judgment; they were a stark reminder of the lingering double standards in sports. Male athletes rarely face scrutiny about their appearance or attire. Women athletes, on the other hand, are often met with commentary on their looks, regardless of their abilities. For Reese, who looks up to Shaq, the incident is especially disappointing.
In Defense of Angel Reese: Why Young Athletes Deserve Respectful Mentorship
Young athletes like Angel Reese should be given mentorship that respects their boundaries and achievements. For Shaq to even hint at something that could be taken as objectifying diminishes his role as a mentor. Reese, who has built her brand around skill, determination, and authenticity, deserves to be seen as more than an outfit or a marketing tool.
The controversy surrounding Shaq’s comments serves as a lesson for all – boundaries and professionalism should remain intact, especially in mentorship relationships. While Shaq may not have meant harm, his words serve as a reminder of the fine line between support and objectification. And for fans of women’s sports, that line is not one they’re willing to see crossed.
