Shaquille O’Neal Faces Intense Backlash After Reportedly Referring to Angel Reese With Vulgar Insult — NBA Legend Under Fire for Calling Rising WNBA Star an ‘Idiot,’ Sparking Outrage Across Social Media and Prompting Public Demands for Accountability, Respect, and a Formal Apology
Shaquille O'Neal Top 10 Career Plays

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal is at the center of a firestorm after reportedly calling rising WNBA star Angel Reese a “f–king idiot” during a recent podcast discussion about player behavior and media presence.

Social Media Erupts in Outrage

The controversial remark has ignited fierce backlash online, with many condemning O’Neal’s language as sexist and disrespectful. Renowned sports journalist Jemele Hill tweeted,

“Calling a young Black woman in sports that name isn’t tough love — it’s abuse.”

Fans and fellow athletes quickly rallied behind Reese, praising her for her dedication, leadership, and rising stardom in the WNBA.Social Media Invented Hilarious New WNBA Stat Just For Angel Reese | OutKick

Teammates and Civil Rights Advocates Demand Apology

Reese’s teammates released a joint statement defending her character and work ethic, emphasizing that such disparaging language is unacceptable in sports discourse.

Civil rights organizations like the NAACP and the National Council of Women in Sports have publicly called on O’Neal to issue a formal apology, highlighting the broader issue of respecting female athletes — especially Black women — in professional sports.

Shaq’s Legacy Under Scrutiny

Once celebrated for his mentorship and humor, O’Neal now faces questions about his attitude and influence. His ambiguous Instagram response —

“I stand by what I said—but maybe I could’ve said it better” —
has done little to quell the outrage, instead fueling demands for a clear and sincere apology.

What’s Next?

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about respect, accountability, and the treatment of women athletes in the media and sports culture. As Angel Reese continues to rise, many are watching closely to see how Shaquille O’Neal responds and whether the NBA legend will address the backlash with the seriousness it demands.