Angel Reese Discusses Her Uneasy Relationship with the Media

Angel Reese shared her thoughts on her complicated relationship with the media during a recent episode of her podcast, Unapologetically Angel. She mentioned that she’d rather face a fine than engage with reporters, citing a pattern of misunderstandings.

“Honestly, sometimes I’d prefer to just pay a fine rather than talk to the media because it always gets twisted,” Reese expressed in the episode that aired on Thursday.

She went on to say, “For me, dealing with the media is really intimidating. That’s why I’ve never been on anyone else’s podcast. I worry about how things can escalate.”

Reese, who just wrapped up her second season with the Sky, has been in the spotlight frequently for her rivalry with Caitlin Clark and her remarks regarding the WNBA’s progression, tracing back to her college days at LSU and continuing after her draft by Chicago.

Towards the end of a tough season, she called out her teammates and hinted that they might need to consider a “different direction.” Notably, her postseason exit interview with the Sky was later canceled.

“I’ve been quite clear about what I need and what I want,” Reese told a local outlet last month. She expressed her reluctance to “accept the same outcomes we experienced this year,” especially given the Sky’s challenging 10-34 record.

“I want to spend my career here. But if things don’t work out, then I’ll have to do what’s best for me. For now, I’m trying to stay open to what I have and make the most of it,” she added.

Despite her intentions, Reese noted that her comments were misconstrued, which led to her suspension for the first half of a game and her missing the rest of the season due to a persistent back injury.

“Even leading up to games, I dread what the media might ask,” she reflected during a conversation with guest Taylor Rooks on her podcast. “A question might seem great, but it often gets turned around, placed in a different context. It makes me wonder if they’re there to create drama or genuinely ask questions.”

“It’s tough for me, especially since I’m also navigating media work. Honestly, I hesitate to interview anyone. Yet, I do feel excited about certain individuals, like Taylor. So, yeah, I might just opt to pay the fine instead.”

In her second season, Reese averaged 14.6 points and 12.7 rebounds per game and was named to the WNBA All-Star Game for the second year in a row. Recently, she also made an appearance at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.