Chiney Ogwumike, a prominent figure in basketball commentary, is rallying support for Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese as she embarks on her second season in the WNBA. “Let her cook. In the words of GloRilla, let her cook,” Ogwumike stated during an exclusive interview at the 2025 ESPYs on July 16. “The scrutiny these women face is unparalleled. We are a league of sisters, and we stand together.”
At just 23, Reese is preparing for her second All-Star game, yet she has become a focal point for online backlash—much of it stemming from her bold persona and the unfortunate reality of racial bias. “For all our players, we must show them support as they grow and find themselves,” Ogwumike emphasized, drawing from her own experience as a two-time All-Star. “The weight of the crown she wears is heavy, but she carries it with grace, and her game is blossoming.”
After a rocky start to the season, Reese has transformed into one of the league's most formidable post players. On July 12, she made history by becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to achieve 40 career double-doubles, accomplishing this feat in just 54 games. “If you’ve seen this year—I crunched the numbers—she averaged 10 points in May, 14 in June, and now 18 points per game this month,” Ogwumike noted. “She’s showcasing her guard skills and leading her franchise.”
Beyond the court, Reese's achievements continue to soar. Recently named the cover athlete for the WNBA edition of NBA 2K26, she boasts the highest social media following among WNBA players, has launched a signature shoe with Reebok, and established a foundation aimed at empowering young girls in underrepresented communities.
Ogwumike is not alone in her defense of Reese. Other notable athletes, including Sheryl Swoopes, Shaquille O’Neal, and Gilbert Arenas, have also voiced their support after former Washington quarterback Robert Griffin III shared a racist image of Reese on social media while accusing her of harboring animosity towards Caitlin Clark—a claim Reese has consistently denied.
Reese and Clark, both 23, were scheduled to face off in the All-Star Game on July 19 at Clark’s home arena in Indianapolis. However, Clark will be sidelined due to a groin injury. Meanwhile, Reese missed Chicago’s last game before the break with a leg injury, leaving her status for the upcoming weekend uncertain.
