WNBA star Angel Reese, who recently wrapped up her debut season with the Chicago Sky, has stirred up controversy with her latest podcast episode. On her show, *Unapologetically Angel*, Reese often dives into topics ranging from basketball to pop culture with her guests. However, her recent conversation with Kayla Nicole, the former girlfriend of Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, has sparked outrage, particularly among Taylor Swift’s fanbase.
During the episode, Reese made a remark that some see as a subtle jab at Swift, who is now dating Kelce. “I loved you guys together,” Reese said to Nicole, referring to her past relationship with Kelce. The comment seemed harmless on the surface, but with Swift now very publicly involved with the NFL star, it quickly set off Swift’s loyal fanbase.
Kayla Nicole tells Angel Reese that her and Travis Kelce mutually respect each other but there isn’t room for acknowledgement due to Taylor Swift.
Via @angelreeseshow pic.twitter.com/Z2NuUkfVVO
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) October 11, 2024
Swift’s fans, also known as “Swifties,” did not take kindly to the remark. Social media exploded with accusations against Reese, labeling her comment as disrespectful and out-of-touch.
“What a weird & disrespectful thing to say considering they’ve been over for almost 3 years now & the guy is currently in a very public relationship. Angel Reese clearly wants the Swifties’ smoke. She’s a [expletive] weirdo for this,” one fan tweeted.
Another fan chimed in, criticizing the current state of podcasting: “This is why this weird podcast era everyone is in needs to END. Too many people buy a mic and camera and think what they have to say matters more than it does.”
Others accused Reese of chasing controversy to boost her platform: “She squeezed all the drama she could out of CC (Caitlin Clark) and now she’s moving up,” wrote one person, referencing Reese’s past rivalry with Iowa basketball star Caitlin Clark.
Some fans even suggested deeper motives behind Reese’s words, with one person bluntly stating, “Let’s face it, Angel Reese does not like successful white women.”
As the backlash continues to mount, many are wondering whether Reese will respond or issue an apology. Her candid, sometimes controversial, takes have made *Unapologetically Angel* popular, but this latest comment could test how far she’s willing to go in the name of being “unapologetic.” It remains to be seen how both Reese and her podcast audience will handle the fallout from this unexpected confrontation with one of pop culture’s most beloved figures.