In the ever-churning world of WNBA drama, a new chapter unfolded when Angel Reese’s mom, known on X as @awebbreese, took to the platform to defend her daughter against controversial claims by former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III (RGIII). The dispute centers on Griffin’s assertion that individuals within Reese’s inner circle informed him of her supposed hatred for rival Caitlin Clark, a narrative that has ignited a firestorm of debate online.
This latest clash ties back to the ongoing rivalry between Reese and Clark, which escalated after a flagrant foul by Clark on Reese during a May 17, 2025, game, as detailed by Yahoo Sports. The incident, where Reese tumbled to the court and later brushed it off as a “basketball play,” has fueled media speculation and fan fervor—elements Griffin leaned into with his recent X post. In it, he claimed unnamed sources close to Reese confirmed her animosity toward Clark, a statement he framed as part of a broader commentary on racism and sportsmanship following a viral, racially charged image depicting Reese as a monkey. RG3 also pointed out that Reese was responsible for his wife and daughters receiving death threats online.
Reese’s mom swiftly challenged the validity of Griffin’s sources. In her pointed reply, she emphasized her daughter’s “small & tight” circle, questioning who could have made such claims and suggesting they lack credibility. Her tone was protective, urging Griffin to “stay on that side” and signaling a firm closure to external meddling in her daughter’s personal feelings. This response comes amid a season marked by heightened scrutiny, including a WNBA investigation into alleged racist abuse toward Reese after the May incident, as reported by the Daily Mail. The racial undertones have added layers to the Clark-Reese narrative, complicating Griffin’s attempt to address it.
The backlash against Griffin has been swift and sharp. X users, including @iriscentral_ and @bahamiangyal23, accused him of defamation, arguing his comments have fueled a “hate train” against Reese. This echoes a broader sentiment that his involvement—bolstered by his history of commenting on the rivalry, including a widely viewed May 2025 post—has amplified tensions rather than resolved them. Reese’s mom’s intervention reflects a growing trend of family members stepping in to shield athletes from media-driven controversies, a stance that resonates with fans who see Griffin’s remarks as opportunistic.
The Clark-Reese rivalry, now in its third year, has been strategically highlighted by ESPN, with matchups scheduled to capitalize on their dynamic, per Yahoo Sports. As Reese’s profile rises—earning $74,909 this season and delivering standout performances—her mom’s defense underscores the personal stakes behind the public feud. Griffin, once a Heisman winner, now finds himself a polarizing figure, his intentions questioned amid calls for Reese to pursue legal action against such narratives.
As the WNBA season progresses, this exchange highlights the delicate balance athletes navigate between competition and personal integrity, with family stepping up to draw the line.
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