Angel Reese’s WNBA Finals showed how criticism of her play becomes an accusation of racism

The writer argues that criticism of Angel Reese’s basketball decisions and play during the 2026 WNBA Finals was repeatedly treated by some fans as evidence of racism. He says asking Reese about her role in moving from Chicago to Atlanta followed up on questions he had raised months earlier, and that she was given space to explain her decision.

The writer acknowledges using pointed opinions and sarcasm, while arguing that disagreement with his tone does not make criticism of Reese an attack on Black women. He says a social media video accused him of framing Reese negatively whether Chicago traded her or she reached the Finals with Atlanta. His posts about Reese drew more than 1.7 million impressions and 3,400 replies for one, and nearly one million impressions and over 1,300 replies for another.