WNBA Star Defends Young Teammate Amidst Online Backlash

WNBA Star Ariel Atkins Defends Angel Reese Amidst Public Criticism Chicago, IL – June 11, 2025 – WNBA player Ariel Atkins recently spoke out in defense of her teammate, Angel Reese, addressing the significant online criticism Reese has faced. The comments, captured in a short video clip from a press conference, highlight the pressures faced by young athletes in the spotlight. "The kid's crown is heavy, respect that," Atkins stated, emphasizing the weight of expectations and scrutiny on Reese. Atkins further explained that Reese, at only 23 years old, is dealing with an immense amount of pressure, both on and off the court. She underscored the importance of separating on-court performance from personal attacks and emphasized the need for respect for Reese's accomplishments and resilience. The video clip, which has already garnered significant attention online, has sparked a conversation about the treatment of young athletes and the need for responsible social media engagement. It serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting young talent and recognizing the challenges they face while navigating both athletic careers and public life.