Angel Reese, star forward for the Chicago Sky, addressed the media on Tuesday following the WNBA’s decision to investigate reported racist remarks aimed at her and teammates during a weekend game against the Indiana Fever.
While Reese’s comments reflected calm resolve and gratitude for her team’s support, the team’s media staff drew sharp criticism for limiting the press interaction.
“Obviously there’s no place in this league for that,” Reese told reporters, in her first public statement since the incident. “I think the WNBA and our team and our organization has done a great job supporting me.
“I’ve gone through so many different things in the past couple of years in my life, but I think just having the support and this love, and being a part of an organization that really supports me and loves me is something I just couldn’t imagine not being a part of.”
However, attempts by reporters to follow up on her remarks were abruptly halted. A member of the Sky’s public relations team interrupted with a stern “next question,” effectively ending any deeper discussion on the subject.
Fans and media call out Chicago Sky over controlled press session
The Sky’s PR move didn’t go unnoticed. On X (formerly Twitter), media figures and fans voiced their frustration over the tightly managed session.
Patrick Finley, a veteran reporter, noted, “Only three questions,” highlighting the unusually short availability for such a serious issue.
One user commented, “PR jackasses just make it worse. Get all the Q and A done now, otherwise it lingers.” Another added, “She is tiredddd. And I’m so sorry she gotta go through this.”
Others took a more sympathetic tone toward Reese, applauding her for maintaining grace. “I’m so glad she seems to be in great spirits because the narrative about her is so disgusting man,” a fan posted.
The controversy stems from an incident during Saturday’s game in Indianapolis, where multiple reports claimed that racially offensive language was used by fans targeting Reese and the Sky.
The WNBA has since confirmed it is actively reviewing the situation, analyzing game footage, and working with arena security personnel.
Despite the controversy, Sky interim head coach Tyler Marsh commended Reese’s professionalism and focus amid the fallout.
“She’s handled it great. I mean, for her, it’s about basketball, so I think that’s where her mind is at,” Marsh said. “Angel’s a winner. Angel’s a competitor, and she wants to be there for her teammates and we’re certainly there for her as well.”
The Sky are set to make their home debut later this week, with increased media attention not just on their performance, but on how the organization continues to handle a sensitive situation.
As the league’s investigation unfolds, many fans are calling for more transparency and fewer attempts to control the narrative.
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