“Shaq Defends Angel Reese with Passionate Outburst Against RG3: ‘Recognize Her Talent and That She’s a Worthy Representative’”

In a fiery and emotional moment that quickly went viral, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal stepped into the ongoing controversy surrounding rising WNBA star Angel Reese and former NFL quarterback-turned-podcaster Robert Griffin III (RG3). The outburst came after RG3 appeared to stoke the flames of a racially tinged debate involving Reese, prompting Shaq to draw a hard line in the sand: “Stop it. Recognize her talent and that she’s a worthy representative.”

The controversy centers around backlash Angel Reese received after being announced as a cover athlete for NBA 2K25. Critics questioned why Iowa sensation Caitlin Clark wasn’t chosen instead. While that debate already had fans sharply divided, things took an ugly turn when offensive, racially insensitive memes began circulating — including one that depicted Reese as a monkey. RG3, instead of denouncing the imagery, reposted the content under the guise of asking fans to “chill.”

For many, that move crossed a line.

Shaquille O’Neal, who has long supported women in sports and has personally mentored Reese, exploded in defense of the 22-year-old star:

“RG3 tweet another monkey post about my girl Angel Reese, I’m punching you in the face. It’s enough. I don’t usually do stuff like this, but just stop it, bro. You got your job. You got your podcast. Leave my Angel Reese alone.”

His response was raw and emotional. Shaq went on to express his frustration that RG3 — a Black man himself — would not only stay silent but seemingly participate in a racist narrative aimed at tearing down another successful Black athlete.

“It’s a shame that all the stuff you did in your life, you’re going to be remembered for your podcast. That should tell you you’re not that great… Let it go.”

Shaq emphasized that he had personally advised Reese to rise above the negativity and not respond to the online hate.

“I’m the one calling her and telling her not to respond… You’re messing with her — now what? Say something about me.”

The impassioned defense was met with applause across social media, with many praising Shaq for putting his reputation on the line to stand up for Reese. Others noted that while online trolls are expected, it’s especially harmful when commentary that feeds into racism or misogynoir comes from within the Black community.

RG3 has yet to issue a direct response to Shaq’s tirade, though his initial repost of the monkey meme has drawn widespread condemnation. Dr. Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., also weighed in, calling the entire conversation “an example of why we’ve warned people not to entertain divisive comparisons like these.”

Many fans and media outlets have taken Shaq’s side, pointing out that Angel Reese has more than earned her accolades. The LSU standout has been instrumental in bringing energy and personality to women’s basketball — a sport long underappreciated on the national stage.

“She’s not soft by any means,” Shaq added. “You’re from the streets. But I’m like, ‘You’re beautiful. Don’t indulge with these fools, ‘cause he’s a fool.’”

O’Neal also made a strong point about who should be allowed to critique female basketball players:

“I would respect it more if Lisa Leslie said it. Like that’s y’all category. Stay out of them people’s category.”

In a media environment where women athletes, particularly Black women, are often scrutinized more harshly than their male counterparts, Shaq’s words struck a chord. His message was clear: defend and celebrate these women, don’t diminish them — especially not with racist undertones.

While some joked that they’d be happy to get punched by a millionaire like Shaq just for the payout, the underlying issue remained serious: respect, representation, and the importance of calling out harmful behavior, even when it comes from within.

As Reese continues to rise, she does so under intense public pressure and scrutiny. But if Shaq has anything to say about it, she won’t be facing it alone. His closing message was both protective and defiant:

“Leave her alone. That’s the last time.”

https://youtu.be/3ie7cbwqmew