Stephen A. Smith’s Flip-Flop on Angel Reese: A Case of Hypocrisy and Disrespect
In 2024 where media narratives can shape public perception, Stephen A. Smith's recent flip-flopping on Angel Reese has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Initially, Smith downplayed Reese’s impact and contributions to women’s basketball, comparing her unfavorably to Caitlin Clark, whom he dubbed the “golden goose” of the sport. He insinuated that Reese and other WNBA players were merely jealous of Clark’s marketability, suggesting they needed to ride Clark’s wave for exposure.
Smith went further, hinting that Reese’s flagrant foul during a game against the Indiana Fever on June 16, 2024, was a form of punishment from the WNBA after she confidently stated in a press conference, “People are here to see me too.” This remark challenged the narrative that Clark was the sole attraction in women’s basketball, asserting Reese’s own star power. Smith’s comments, dripping with condescension, were laced with an unsettling undertone that implied Reese’s confidence was unwarranted, and that her appeal paled in comparison to Clark’s, whom he lauded not just for her talent, but for her marketability—a word often used as a code for race.
As Angel Reese continued to soar both on and off the court, breaking records and capturing headlines, Smith’s narrative began to shift. Reese’s double-double streak, which broke Candace Parker’s record, her stellar performance in her first All-Star appearance, and her high-profile moments outside of basketball—like meeting with Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour and Bernard Arnault, the CEO of LVMH, in Paris—forced a reevaluation.
Suddenly, Smith was singing a different tune, praising Reese’s marketability and star power. What was once a dismissive tone transformed into glowing admiration. Yet, this sudden change in attitude didn’t come with an apology or acknowledgment of his previous statements. Instead, Smith tried to position himself as someone who had always seen Reese’s potential, conveniently ignoring his past critiques.
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This isn’t the first time Stephen A. Smith has been called out for his treatment of Black women athletes. His exchange with Monica McNutt on his show, where the two engaged in a heated debate. McNutt, a respected sports analyst, challenged Smith.
Smith’s shift from criticism to praise of Angel Reese reeks of hypocrisy, especially given how vocal he was in downplaying her impact earlier in the season. It’s not just about changing his opinion—everyone is entitled to evolve in their views—but the issue lies in how Smith has continually underestimated and undervalued Black women athletes, only to flip-flop when public opinion sways in their favor.
Fans online were quick to call out Smith’s behavior, labeling it for what it was—two-faced and opportunistic. They criticized him for his initial attacks on Reese and for the way he has historically positioned Black women in sports as less marketable or important. The outcry was loud and clear, with fans pointing out the glaring inconsistency in his comments and the lack of accountability in his change of heart.
Smith was called everything but a child of God as fans took to Threads to express their frustration and disappointment in his behavior. The underlying message from the community was clear: you can’t keep tearing down Black women and then try to switch sides when it suits you.
Angel Reese’s journey is a testament to her talent, resilience, and star power—qualities that were evident long before Stephen A. Smith decided to jump on the bandwagon. Her success is not a product of marketability alone; it’s a reflection of her hard work and the support of a community that has always seen her for the star she is.
As media figures like Smith continue to influence public narratives, it’s crucial for them to approach their platforms with respect and consistency. It’s not enough to flip-flop when it’s convenient or when public opinion shifts. True respect for athletes, especially Black women athletes, requires a commitment to recognizing their worth from the start, not just when it becomes fashionable.
In the end, Angel Reese’s rise to the top is a story of triumph in the face of doubt, and it’s time the media starts giving her the recognition she’s long deserved, without the need for backpedaling or opportunistic praise.
