Controversy Erupts as Sports Media Allegedly Deny Angel Reese Votes on WNBA All-Star Ballots: Fans, Players, and Analysts React

The WNBA’s All-Star voting process has always been a hotbed for debate, but this year, the spotlight has intensified around Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese. As fan voting concluded and media ballots became public, reports surfaced that several prominent sports media members did not include Reese on their WNBA All-Star ballots—despite her impressive on-court performances and skyrocketing popularity. The backlash has been swift, raising questions about media bias, the value of rookie contributions, and the intersection of sports and social movements.

Angel Reese’s Stellar Rookie Season

Angel Reese, drafted seventh overall by the Chicago Sky, has quickly become one of the league’s most talked-about rookies. Averaging a double-double and setting a new WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles by a rookie, Reese’s relentless rebounding, defensive energy, and leadership have helped keep the Sky competitive in a tough Eastern Conference.

Off the court, Reese’s charisma and authenticity have made her a fan favorite. She’s been vocal about women’s empowerment, racial justice, and the need for greater respect for women’s basketball—a stance that has resonated with fans and drawn attention from national media.

The All-Star Voting System: How It Works

The WNBA All-Star selection process is a blend of fan, player, coach, and media votes. The fan vote counts for 50%, while WNBA players and media each contribute 25%. The top vote-getters are named starters, while coaches select the reserves.

This year, Reese finished among the top five in fan voting, trailing only Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Alyssa Thomas. However, when the media ballots were revealed, several high-profile journalists and analysts omitted Reese from their selections, sparking outrage among fans and sparking a heated debate on social media.

Media Backlash and Fan Outrage

The revelation that some sports media members did not vote for Reese—despite her statistical accomplishments and impact—was met with immediate backlash. Hashtags like #FreeAngel and #LetReesePlay trended on Twitter/X, with fans and former players questioning the motives behind the omissions.

Some critics accused the media of holding personal biases against Reese, citing her unapologetic personality and willingness to speak out on social issues. Others argued that the snub was indicative of a broader pattern in women’s sports, where outspoken Black athletes face additional scrutiny.

“Angel Reese is putting up historic numbers as a rookie and bringing new fans to the league,” tweeted one fan. “If she’s not an All-Star, what are we even doing?”

The “Me Too” Movement and Gender Dynamics

Adding another layer to the controversy, some social commentators drew parallels between Reese’s situation and the broader #MeToo movement, which advocates for women’s voices to be heard and respected across all industries. They argued that Reese’s exclusion from media ballots was a setback for women’s empowerment in sports.

“Angel Reese embodies everything the #MeToo movement stands for—strength, resilience, and the courage to speak out,” said Dr. Lisa Johnson, a sociologist specializing in gender and sports. “When media members exclude her, it sends a message that women, especially Black women, are still fighting for validation in spaces they’ve earned.”

Others, however, cautioned against conflating the two issues, arguing that All-Star voting should be based strictly on performance and not on off-court activism or popularity.

Media Members Respond

Several journalists who omitted Reese from their ballots defended their decisions, citing a crowded field of deserving forwards and the challenges of comparing rookies to established stars. Some pointed to advanced metrics, team records, or positional balance as factors in their votes.

“I respect Angel Reese’s game and what she’s done for the league,” wrote one veteran WNBA reporter. “But when I filled out my ballot, I had to make tough choices. There are only so many spots, and I went with players who have been more efficient or have led their teams to more wins.”

Still, others acknowledged the power of public opinion. “The fan vote is there for a reason,” said another analyst. “If the fans want Reese in the game, that’s a message the league can’t ignore.”

Players and Coaches Weigh In

Within the WNBA community, reactions were mixed but supportive of Reese. Teammates and opponents alike praised her impact, with some veterans calling for a more transparent voting process.

“She’s earned her spot,” said Sky veteran Marina Mabrey. “Angel brings it every night, and you can’t teach what she does on the glass.”

Aces star A’ja Wilson, herself a frequent All-Star, tweeted: “Let’s give credit where it’s due. Angel is the real deal. The league is better with her in it.”

Coaches, meanwhile, stressed the importance of balancing fan engagement with competitive integrity. “The All-Star Game should showcase the best and the brightest,” said one Eastern Conference coach. “Angel’s definitely in that conversation.”

What’s Next for Angel Reese and the All-Star Game?

Despite the controversy, Reese’s strong fan support may still secure her a spot in the All-Star Game, either as a starter or as a coach’s selection. The league has not commented officially on the media voting patterns, but sources say the WNBA is aware of the backlash and is committed to a fair, transparent process.

For Reese, the focus remains on her team and her continued growth as a player. In a recent interview, she said, “I can’t control the votes, but I can control how hard I play. I’m grateful for the fans and my teammates. At the end of the day, I just want to win games and help grow the game.”

Conclusion: A Flashpoint for the WNBA

The Angel Reese All-Star voting controversy is about more than just basketball. It’s a flashpoint in the ongoing conversation about media influence, representation, and the evolving landscape of women’s sports. As the league prepares for its showcase event, all eyes will be on how the WNBA responds—and whether the voices of fans, players, and advocates for equality will shape the future of the game.