Angel Reese is one of the most popular athletes in the world, and for good reason. The former LSU standout has consistently impressed throughout her young career, both in college and in the WNBA.
However, similar to other players in the WNBA, Reese has been criticized by fans and the media for her performance on the court.
To NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, who has a strong relationship with Reese, the Chicago Sky forward isn't worried about outside critics. Reese understands that she's a great player, and O'Neal believes that understanding greatness is the first step to becoming the player she is.
"[She's] really a nice, beautiful young lady. But when you're in this [sport] of ours, you have a play a certain way and you have to be a certain way," Shaq said when asked Reese, per SI. "A lot of times, they, if they don't understand who you are, they misconceive. But I tell her all the time, 'Don't worry about that.'
"She's as good and even better than some of the people that y'all are kissing up to. But y'all don't know it. But she knows it," Shaq continued. "And in order to be great, you have to know you're great."
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Throughout the 2025 season, Reese has averaged 10.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 1.8 steals.
Chicago has struggled to start the year, sitting at 2-4. The Sky have won two straight, taking down the Dallas Wings in back-to-back games.
There have been times throughout the year when Reese has struggled, but it's still very early in the campaign, and her shooting woes should eventually be figured out.
Outside of that, she's been excellent again.