Sam Clayton

I support Angel Reese because I love women’s basketball. I want her to succeed because she helps move the needle, and I enjoy watching talented, competitive players push the sport forward. That doesn’t put her above criticism. She played horribly during parts of these Finals, and there’s plenty to critique: finishing, shot selection, turnovers, and stretches where her offensive execution simply wasn’t good enough. Rebounding matters so much to the game……BUT so does what happens after you get the ball. Supporting her doesn’t require defending every possession, every decision she makes, or every reaction she has. I can respect her competitiveness and still question how she handles certain moments. Two things can be true at once. Some people think support requires making excuses for her. Others think criticism requires personal hatred. Both groups need to grow up. I love the sport enough to take her game seriously. That means giving her credit and holding her accountable. Some will only do one or the other; which is very telling. I’m rooting for Angel and her growth all around. I’m not applying for her public relations department.