Athletes often use their fame to connect with fans through podcasts and shows, sharing their achievements and struggles. Hearing directly from them usually feels more authentic.
But sometimes, honest comments can stir up controversy. Recently, on a podcast with WNBA star Angel Reese, retired NBA legend Shaq O’Neal made a comment that left Reese feeling uncomfortable.
The controversial star Shaq O’Neal is getting a lot of criticism again after he commented on WNBA star Angel Reese’s “little shorts” during her podcast, “Unapologetically Angel.” O’Neal mentioned that lowering the basketball rims could lead to more dunking in the women’s league, but things got awkward when he talked about the shorts Reese wore at a recent event.
The 52-year-old told Reese, “Imagine you in the same little shorts you had on at the Wild ‘N Out show dunking. You know how many T-shirts you’re gonna sell? You’re tripping.”
Reese appeared extremely uncomfortable, repeatedly rolling her eyes and exclaiming, “Oh my god.” She then tried to change the subject by repeating, “Okay. Alright. Alright. Alright.”
Their exchange went viral, and many fans criticized O’Neal’s comments, especially since Reese has called him “a father figure” in the past.
Fans have mixed reactions to Shaq O’Neal’s viral comment
The awkward exchange between Shaq O’Neal and Angel Reese caught a lot of attention. Many listeners criticized Shaq for his comments. One Twitter user, @AmeriKraut, wrote, “Angel reese learned a painful lesson about men through Shaq in real time, i fear.”
Another user, @heyyitsjanea, said, “That’s so violating and just weird. she looked to that man as a mentor.” And @doc_debauchery commented, “He’s too old to not know when he’s making someone uncomfortable. Gross.”
On the other hand, some people supported O’Neal’s remarks. @UsurpedPoetGee stated, “She wants to have it both ways but she can’t, either she’s going to have to pick a side or accept that she objectifies herself and will be seen as such.”
Another user, @jaicilgin, added, “So she wears tiny shorts to a public event but then gets upset when men are fantasising about her in them? Is she that stupid? Maybe cover up next time.”
