Shaquille O’Neal, one of the most recognizable and respected figures in basketball history, is under fire after reportedly calling WNBA rookie Angel Reese an “idiot” during a recent off-the-cuff conversation that quickly went viral.

According to multiple online sources and social media accounts, the NBA Hall of Famer allegedly made the vulgar remark while discussing Reese’s recent behavior on and off the court. Though no official video or transcript of the comment has been publicly released, fans and insiders claim the insult was made during a podcast appearance or private conversation that was later leaked.

The backlash was immediate and intense.

Angel Reese, the breakout star from LSU who joined the WNBA amid massive hype and fanfare, has already faced intense media scrutiny in her early professional days. But many fans believe Shaq’s words crossed a line—especially coming from someone with his platform, influence, and connection to the LSU community, where both he and Reese made their names.

Social Media Outrage

Hashtags like #RespectAngel and #ShaqApologize began trending within hours of the report. Thousands of fans, athletes, and media figures have voiced their frustration at what they consider a deeply disrespectful and unnecessary attack on a young Black woman trying to make her mark in a still-male-dominated sports world.

“This is unacceptable,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Shaq should be mentoring young players, not tearing them down in public. Especially not like this.”

WNBA players also reacted. Some shared cryptic posts hinting at disappointment, while others directly demanded accountability from the basketball legend.

The Call for Accountability

Critics argue that O’Neal’s reported language reflects a broader issue within professional sports—where young women, particularly outspoken or confident ones, are too often targeted by older male figures in power.

“This isn’t just about one word,” wrote a sports journalist in an opinion column. “It’s about the way we treat women in sports when they show passion, confidence, or even just personality. Would he have said this about a male rookie?”

Others have pointed out the irony that O’Neal, who has built a brand around charisma, controversy, and outspoken opinions, would lash out at a player for being bold and confident—traits he himself was once celebrated for.

Silence from Shaq

So far, Shaquille O’Neal has not issued a statement or responded to the backlash publicly. That silence is only fueling more frustration, as fans await an acknowledgment—or better yet, an apology.

“Own it,” one user posted. “You said something wrong. Apologize and move on. Don’t let your silence speak louder than your mistake.”

The WNBA and Reese’s team have also not made official comments at the time of writing, though sources suggest discussions are happening behind the scenes about how to respond.

Bigger Than One Moment

For many observers, this controversy is about more than just a verbal slip. It’s about how society—especially sports culture—continues to handle the presence of strong, unapologetic women on big stages.

Angel Reese has built a reputation for playing with swagger and speaking her mind, but those same qualities have drawn criticism from some corners. Shaq’s alleged comment, critics argue, just adds fuel to a fire that never seems to die down for female athletes, especially Black women.

What Happens Next?

Whether or not O’Neal addresses the controversy remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: fans and fellow athletes aren’t letting this go quietly.

As one viral post put it:
“Legends should lift up the next generation—not tear them down with careless words.”