Angel Reese Breaks Down in Tears: ‘They Don’t Respect Me’ — WNBA Star Hints at Retirement After Shocking Disrespect

Angel Reese, one of the WNBA’s most electrifying rising stars, has always played the game with unmatched fire, flair, and authenticity. But behind the confident exterior, the 22-year-old is now grappling with deep emotional wounds — ones she says are caused not by the game itself, but by the disrespect she faces within it.

In a deeply emotional moment during a recent interview, Reese choked back tears as she addressed ongoing criticism and double standards that she believes are tied to her race, personality, and background. And in a bombshell revelation, she hinted at a possible early retirement — leaving fans stunned and heartbroken.

“They don’t respect me… just because I’m Black,” Reese said, her voice cracking.
“I’ve done everything right, and still… I’m the villain.”

These five words — “I’m the villain for being me” — quickly went viral, echoing across social media and drawing tears, empathy, and outrage from fans and fellow athletes alike.

The Dark Side of Fame

Since entering the WNBA as a top draft pick for the Chicago Sky, Angel Reese has been a ratings magnet, social media icon, and cultural force. But with that fame has come relentless scrutiny, including criticism over her attitude, her confidence, and even her appearance — things rarely questioned when it comes to her white counterparts.

Reese didn’t name specific names, but many fans and analysts believe she’s been unfairly targeted by media narratives that paint her as “too emotional,” “arrogant,” or “controversial,” even when her male or non-Black peers exhibit similar behavior and are celebrated for it.

“It’s like, I can drop 20 and 10, but the story is still about my lashes, my trash talk, or my walk-off,” Reese said.
“I love the game, but sometimes it doesn’t love me back.”

Support Floods In, But Damage Is Done

Following the interview, athletes across the WNBA and NBA sent messages of support. LeBron James, Skylar Diggins-Smith, and even Shaquille O’Neal, who has mentored Reese, took to social media to uplift her voice.

“Keep being you @Reese10Angel. You’re changing the game and they can’t handle it. That’s on them,” LeBron wrote.

Fans quickly rallied behind the hashtag #RespectAngel, demanding fair treatment and mental health support for players like Reese, who represent more than just points on a scoreboard.

Is Retirement Really on the Table?

Despite being in just the early stages of her pro career, Reese’s statement sparked genuine fear that she may walk away from the game altogether if the climate doesn’t change.

“It’s not worth losing myself to please people who were never going to love me anyway,” she said.
“I think about quitting sometimes. I won’t lie.”

Whether those words were a moment of vulnerability or a real warning, the message is clear: Angel Reese is hurting, and the WNBA must listen.

A Voice That Can’t Be Silenced

What makes Angel Reese special isn’t just her stats — it’s her unapologetic presence. She’s brought culture, fire, and boldness to a league that desperately needs new voices and visibility. And yet, she’s being asked to shrink herself just to fit in.

But if there’s one thing we know about Angel Reese, it’s that she doesn’t fold — she fights.

As fans hold their breath and wait to see her next move, one thing is certain: the world just got a powerful reminder that even the strongest players need support — and that respect, like talent, should never be conditional.