Angel Reese Targeted in Racist Meme

This week, WNBA star Angel Reese became the target of one of the most vile and racist attacks we’ve seen in sports media recently. A disturbing meme went viral, depicting her as a monkey on a fake cover of “NBA 2K26: WNBA Edition.” The image wasn’t just offensive—it was dehumanizing, violent, and steeped in anti-Black racism.

As a Black woman, I am deeply offended. What Angel Reese is facing isn’t just online “hate”—it’s racism, plain and simple. The fact that someone felt comfortable enough to create and share this kind of imagery speaks to the very real hostility that Black women athletes endure just for existing, for succeeding, and for shining.

Former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III spoke out against the post on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Whether you like a player or not, Angel Reese should never be called or depicted as a monkey. There should be no space for racism in this world.” He’s absolutely right—there is no space for it. Not in sports. Not online. Not anywhere.

Griffin also revealed that he had stayed silent about Reese previously because she posted a video that led to threats against his family. Still, he said what needed to be said: racism is never justified. Hate is never acceptable.

But things escalated further when Griffin commented on the ongoing media comparisons between Angel Reese and fellow rookie Caitlin Clark. He claimed sources from Reese’s inner circle told him she resented the constant comparisons.

Angel clapped back swiftly, tweeting: “Lying on this app when everybody know the first and last name of everybody in my circle for clout is nastyyyy work.”

Let’s be clear: Angel Reese doesn’t owe anyone grace when she’s being disrespected, misrepresented, and targeted. She’s had to navigate being both celebrated and vilified since college—and now, in the WNBA, the attacks have only gotten louder and more disgusting.

This moment should be a wake-up call. Women in sports deserve protection, not just praise when they win. Racism isn’t a trending topic—it’s a lived experience. And we can’t keep sweeping it under the rug every time it rears its ugly head.

Angel Reese deserves better. And we all need to say that louder. Hate is never acceptable—and we’re not letting this slide.