Michelle Obama offered a ringing endorsement of WNBA star Angel Reese during a recent episode of her podcast, “IMO,” urging critics to back down from the young athlete.
Obama, who co-hosts the show with her brother Craig Robinson, praised Reese for her resilience and composure in the face of intense public scrutiny. “You are handling yourself beautifully,” Obama told Reese during the episode. “It’s not just what you do, but the way you carry yourself. You do it with a smile on your face with an excellent attitude. You are a special, special person.”
The conversation highlighted the unique pressures faced by Black women in professional sports. Obama, a Chicago native, has frequently used her platform to discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for young leaders.
“Don’t mess with this Angel,” exclaimed Obama. Reese, who began her professional career with the Chicago Sky before being traded to the Atlanta Dream, expressed deep gratitude for the support. She referred to the former First Lady as “the queen” and admitted that the transition to the professional spotlight has not been without its challenges.
The WNBA standout since her collegiate days at LSU. While her double-double performances on the court have earned her All-Star honors, her outspoken personality and competitive nature have often drawn polarized reactions from fans and commentators alike. Reese noted during the podcast that she often feels misunderstood in media settings.
She discussed the difficulty of maintaining an authentic identity while navigating the expectations of being a face for the league. The podcast appearance comes at a pivotal time for the WNBA, which has seen an unprecedented surge in viewership and commercial interest. While the increased visibility has brought revenue and new fans, it has also amplified the level of criticism directed at its marquee players.