Angel Reese Stays Unbothered Amid BET Awards Drama, Claims Third Win
Angel Reese is proving she’s not just a rising star on the court but a powerhouse in handling pressure off it. The Washington Mystics forward clinched her third consecutive BET Sportswoman of the Year Award at the 2025 BET Awards on June 9, 2025, but not without stirring some controversy.
The victory sparked a reaction from boxing champion Claressa Shields, who publicly voiced her disappointment on social media. Shields tweeted, “Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the BET Awards, but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other nominees. I just thought accolades mattered.” The unexpected public jab threw the spotlight on Reese, but the 22-year-old remained laser-focused on her game and personal growth.
Angel Reese’s Grace Under Fire
Rather than getting caught up in the drama, Reese addressed her BET honor with a mix of confidence and humility. “It’s great… I think it really meant something to people because it’s me,” Reese reflected after the award show. But she didn’t shy away from admitting her recent performance struggles. “I haven’t been playing well at all… I take accountability, try to be better than the last day,” she said, showing maturity well beyond her years.
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Her post-win mindset was clear: block out negativity and keep grinding. “I don’t complain, I don’t care about anything else. I’m just here to go to work every day and go home,” Reese said, emphasizing her commitment to the sport amid growing public scrutiny.
Teammate Ariel Atkins Defends Reese’s Resilience
Angel’s Washington Mystics teammate, Ariel Atkins, stepped up to defend Reese from the relentless criticism. Atkins praised Reese’s mental toughness, saying, “This is a 23-year-old kid and the amount of crap that she gets on day-to-day, and she still shows up… Her crown is heavy.” Atkins’ words shed light on the harsh reality of being in the spotlight as a young athlete and the strength required to persevere.
What This Means for Angel Reese’s Future
Despite the noise, Reese is cementing her place as a top WNBA star and an influential figure in sports. Winning the BET Sportswoman of the Year award three years running highlights her growing impact beyond the basketball court, especially among young Black women and aspiring athletes.
Her ability to stay grounded while handling criticism and balancing personal accountability sets her apart in a competitive and often unforgiving industry.
Why Fans Are Loving Reese’s Journey
- Authentic and honest: Reese openly admits to struggles but refuses to let them define her.
- Focus on growth: She is all about improving every day, showing a strong work ethic.
- Unshakable confidence: No matter the drama, she keeps her eyes on the prize.
- A voice for young women: Reese represents resilience and excellence in sports and culture.
What’s Next for Angel Reese?
As the WNBA season progresses, all eyes will be on Reese to see how she bounces back on the court. Fans and critics alike are eager to witness her continued rise to greatness, both as an athlete and a role model.
What do you think about Angel Reese’s response to the BET Awards drama? Drop your thoughts below and stay tuned for more exclusive updates on Reese’s journey and the latest in sports and entertainment news!
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