Angel Reese mocked for missing layup repeatedly after comments about WNBA players sitting out for more money

1. A Viral Moment on the Court: Angel Reese’s Missed Opportunities

Angel Reese, a standout WNBA player, recently found herself at the center of attention for all the wrong reasons. During a high-stakes game, Reese missed three consecutive layups while standing right under the basket, one of which hit the bottom edge of the backboard. Although she managed to secure two offensive rebounds during the possession, her misfortune didn’t end there—she fell to the hardwood after her third missed shot. The clip of this sequence quickly went viral on social media, with fans and critics alike seizing the opportunity to weigh in. The timing of the viral moment was particularly poignant, given Reese’s recent comments about the possibility of WNBA players sitting out games to negotiate for higher pay. The footage sparked a wave of sarcastic remarks, with many questioning her demands for better compensation in light of her performance.

2. Angel Reese and the Push for Higher Pay in the WNBA

Reese’s viral moment came on the heels of her recent statements about the WNBA’s pay structure. During an episode of her podcast, she and fellow WNBA player DiJonai Carrington discussed the upcoming collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations. Reese made headlines when she revealed that some players were considering drastic measures, such as sitting out games, to push for better pay. "I’ve got to get in the meetings because I’m hearing like, ‘If y’all don’t give us what we want, we sitting out,’" Reese said. She also made a striking admission: "The WNBA don’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think it pays one of my bills. Literally." Her comments sparked a mix of support and criticism, with some fans rallying behind her while others questioned her demands in light of her performance on the court.

3. The Backlash and Public Reaction to Reese’s Comments

The viral video of Reese’s missed layups became a lightning rod for public opinion on her push for higher pay. The sports comedy account "Hater Report" posted the footage with the caption, "Angel Reese DESERVES more money. PAY HER PLEASE," a tongue-in-cheek jab at her recent comments. Other social media users joined in, with some suggesting sarcastically that she should be given a max contract to avoid her sitting out the next season. However, not all the feedback was lighthearted. Some critics were harsher, with one user writing, "We should pay her not to play, please don’t make us watch this (as if anyone watches this)," while another commenter suggested she should be paid less for speaking out. Reese, known for her outspoken personality, has a history of clapping back at critics. In November, she responded to a user who mocked her shooting percentage, reminding them of her accomplishments despite her struggles on the court.

4. Angel Reese’s Rookie Season and Shooting Struggles

Angel Reese entered the WNBA with high expectations after a stellar college career at LSU, where she was part of a championship team. While her shooting ability was not considered her strongest asset heading into her rookie season, her 6-foot-3 frame and defensive prowess made her a formidable presence on the court. Reese quickly proved her doubters right by averaging an impressive 13.1 rebounds per game in 2024, becoming the first player in WNBA history to record three consecutive games with 20-plus rebounds. However, her shooting struggles were evident throughout the season. Reese shot just 39% from the field, 18.8% from 3-point range, and 73.6% from the free-throw line. Despite these challenges, she showed flashes of potential, breaking the WNBA single-season assist record before season-ending wrist surgery derailed her momentum.

5. The Financial Reality of Being a WNBA Player

Reese’s comments about the WNBA’s pay structure struck a chord with many, as they highlighted the financial struggles faced by many players in the league. In an Instagram Live video in October, Reese revealed that her WNBA salary wasn’t enough to cover even her basic expenses. "I’m living beyond my means. Hating pays them bills, baby," she joked. "I just hope you know the WNBA don’t pay my bills at all. I don’t even think that pays one of my bills.Literally, I’m trying to think of my rent… I don’t even know my (WNBA) salary, $74,000?" Reese went on to break down her expenses, revealing that her rent alone was $8,000 a month—far beyond what her WNBA salary could cover. Her comments painted a stark picture of the financial realities faced by many WNBA players, who often rely on overseas leagues, endorsements, and other ventures to make ends meet.

6. The Fight for Fair Pay and the Future of the WNBA

The WNBA players union opted out of its current CBA in October, setting the stage for a potentially contentious negotiation period. With the current agreement set to cover the 2025 season, both sides have a year to hammer out a new deal. Reese’s comments have added fuel to the fire, sparking a broader conversation about the need for better compensation and resources for WNBA players. While some have criticized her timing and approach, Reese remains unapologetic about her advocacy. "Do you realize I got drafted seventh in my class while ‘missing layups’ as a ROOKIE shooting 39% on the year and was STILL an All-Star and that was the worst you’ll ever see me?" she wrote in response to a critic. "Or you just laid up with your dog at home hating Adam?" Reese’s passion and determination are emblematic of a larger movement within the WNBA, as players fight for the fair pay and recognition they believe they deserve.

As the WNBA continues to negotiate its next CBA, the league faces a critical moment in its history. Players like Angel Reese are pushing for change, demanding a league that can sustain them both on and off the court. While the road ahead will likely be fraught with challenges, one thing is clear: the voices of WNBA players will not be silenced.