Claressa Shields has clarified once again that she has no issues with Angel Reese.
Despite rumors and online speculation, Shields has consistently described herself as “Team Angel Reese,” but the narrative of conflict between the two persisted.
“No, I hate when people, like, when they spin narratives. That, like, really gets on my nerves. I think that would mean they want to spin everything and make it into something negative. I like what she is doing. Posted her on my page before,” Claressa Shields said during an appearance on Club Shay Shay.
The misunderstanding stems from the 2025 BET Awards, where Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky won the Sportswoman of the Year award for the third time.
Among the nominees were high-profile athletes including Claressa Shields, A’ja Wilson, Coco Gauff, and Simone Biles.
After Reese’s win was announced, Shields posted on social media, expressing her surprise that she had not received the honor herself. “Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the @BETAwards but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other Nominees [shrugging woman empoji] I just thought accolades mattered,” she wrote.
Shields reaffirms support
In follow-up comments, Shields emphasized her admiration for Reese.
“It wasn’t nothing against Angel, and I hate that they tried to pit me against her, when it’s like I’m a fan of Angel Reese. She’s young and she’s hungry, and I see her wanting to get better. And honestly I don’t know who get more hate, me or her.”
For her part, Reese has remained focused on her basketball career despite facing online criticism and a difficult loss to the New York Liberty.
“I put my all in this sh-. I do,” she said, reflecting on her dedication to the game.
BET recognized Reese not just for her performance on the court, but also for her influence beyond it. She has consistently drawn attention to her sport without compromising her personality, demonstrating that success in professional sports requires both skill and visibility.
With growing statistics in field-goal percentage and assists, Reese continues to improve while inspiring young Black athletes to pursue their dreams.
The public clarification from Claressa Shields has helped settle the debate, confirming that the two athletes are not rivals but supporters of each other’s achievements.
Read the full article here
