Claressa Shields Shoots Veiled Insult At BET For Naming Angel Reese Sportswoman Of The Year

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The BET Awards, held this past weekend, celebrated outstanding achievements in various fields, including sports. Among the nominees for Sportswoman of the Year were Shields, Reese, and other prominent athletes such as A’ja Wilson, Coco Gauff, Dawn Staley, Flau’jae Johnson, Juju Watkins, Sha’Carri Richardson, and Simone Biles. Ultimately, it was Angel Reese who took home the award, marking her third time receiving this honor.

Reese’s selection, however, has not been without controversy. Many fans and analysts have questioned the decision, with some labeling it a “joke.” While Reese had a standout rookie season with the Chicago Sky, leading the league in rebounds before a wrist injury cut her season short, critics argue that her performance did not warrant the accolade compared to Shields’ impressive achievements in boxing.

## Claressa Shields Responds

In the wake of Reese’s win, Shields took to Twitter to express her feelings. “Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the @BETAwards but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other Nominees 🤷🏽‍♀️ I just thought accolades mattered,” she tweeted.

This statement, while seemingly congratulatory, carried an undercurrent of frustration. Shields, who has made a name for herself in the boxing world, felt her accomplishments were overlooked. In 2024 alone, she secured the WBO light heavyweight and WBC heavyweight titles and earlier this year won the WBA heavyweight title. Given her achievements, it’s understandable why Shields might feel deserving of more recognition.

## The Context of Their Achievements

To fully appreciate the controversy, it’s essential to consider the circumstances surrounding both athletes. Angel Reese made headlines during her time at LSU, leading her team to a national championship and becoming a household name in women’s basketball. Her transition to the WNBA with the Chicago Sky showcased her talent, as she recorded 15 double-doubles and was a strong contender for Rookie of the Year.

On the other hand, Claressa Shields has dominated her sport, becoming a three-weight world champion and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. Her accomplishments in boxing are historic, yet the nature of her sport differs significantly from basketball. The criteria for awards like Sportswoman of the Year can vary widely, leading to comparisons that may not always be fair or straightforward.

## The Reaction from Fans and Analysts

Shields’ tweet sparked a wave of reactions from fans and sports analysts alike. Some supported her sentiment, arguing that her achievements warranted more recognition. Others, however, pointed out that awards are subjective and that Reese’s impact on women’s sports, particularly in the wake of her championship win, should not be diminished.

WNBA legend Candace Parker weighed in on the debate, stating, “It’s like comparing apples and oranges.” She emphasized the importance of recognizing the unique contributions each athlete makes to their respective sports and the different challenges they face.

## The Importance of Representation

This incident also highlights a broader issue within sports: the representation and recognition of female athletes. Women in sports often face uphill battles for visibility and respect, and awards like the Sportswoman of the Year can play a significant role in shaping public perception.

For Shields, the frustration may stem not only from losing the award but from a feeling that her contributions to sports are not being fully appreciated. The conversation surrounding Reese’s win sheds light on the need for continued advocacy for female athletes, ensuring that their accomplishments are celebrated equally.

## Moving Forward

As both Shields and Reese continue their respective careers, the dialogue sparked by this incident may serve as a catalyst for change. It underscores the importance of recognizing the diverse talents and achievements of female athletes across various sports.

Shields’ comments, while perhaps tinged with disappointment, can also be seen as a call for greater acknowledgment of female athletes’ hard work and dedication. Meanwhile, Reese’s success exemplifies the rising talent in women’s basketball and the growing popularity of the sport.

## Conclusion

The BET Awards incident involving Claressa Shields and Angel Reese serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding recognition in sports. While Shields may feel slighted by the outcome, her achievements remain significant in the realm of boxing. Conversely, Reese’s rise in women’s basketball highlights the importance of celebrating young talent and the impact of sports on society.

As the conversation continues, it is crucial for sports organizations and fans to foster an environment where all athletes, regardless of their discipline, are celebrated for their contributions. In doing so, we can ensure that the future of women’s sports is bright, inclusive, and full of opportunity for all.