Angel Reese has a fan in Olympic Gold Medalist Megan Rapinoe. The soccer star recently spoke about Reese’s candid conversation with Michelle Obama, during which she admitted to avoiding the media to protect her peace. The WNBA sensation even said she would pay a fine before sitting down with the press. On her podcast, “A Touch More,” Rapinoe defended Reese and explained why she found her statement so moving.
Megan Rapinoe Defended Angel Reese Following Her Comments About The Media
According to Rapinoe, she found Reese‘s comments about avoiding the media to be a “really great example of her taking her power back.”
Continuing, Rapinoe touched on the false narrative that Reese battles every day to correct. “Angel was set up as a villain before she was even in the WNBA, and now she’s making it clear that she’s gonna protect her peace,” she said. “The media landscape is changing rapidly in women’s sports, and of course, the W, as always, is out front.”
Rapinoe explained that Reese would, of course, continue speaking to the media; however, it would be on her terms. “Angel isn’t saying that she’s never gonna do media, but she is saying that she won’t just stand up and take anything that’s thrown at her,” she said.
Rapinoe Said Angel Reese’s Comments About The Media Are More About Respect Than Anything
Reese has been vocal about not wanting to interact with the press before or after games. Most recently, the former Chicago Sky star was under scrutiny in 2025 after she said her comments about her teammates were taken out of context.
Rapinoe opined that Reese’s recent statement had more to do with “respect” than anything. “There needs to be a quality of journalism that is at the level of these athletes,” she said.
“I feel like this was obviously something Angel is doing for herself because of her personal experience, but I think this is a great example for all athletes and all female athletes of, ‘I don’t really have to do this,” Rapinoe added.
“It might mean I get a fine, but at some point, we have to adjust the expectations that journalists can just go up there and throw any kind of narrative.”
Michelle Obama Has A Firm Warning To The Angel Reese Haters
On Michelle Obama’s “IMO” podcast, the former First Lady of the United States spoke with Reese about her time in the league and her accomplishments off the court.
During their conversation, Michelle praised Reese for the grace and composure she maintains in public despite facing intense scrutiny.
“You are handling yourself beautifully. I mean, it’s not just what you do, but the way you carry yourself, girl. I mean, it is really a joy to watch you manage it all, and you do it with a smile on your face with an excellent attitude,” the “Becoming” author said. “You are a special, special person.”
And that’s not all. Michelle went further, issuing a firm warning to Reese’s critics. “Don’t mess with this girl. Don’t mess with her spirit. Do not mess with this angel. Stop it. Just stop it,” she said.
Reese Is Now Part Of The Atlanta Dream
Reese has just kicked off the start of her third season in the WNBA as part of the Atlanta Dream. She was traded from the Chicago Sky on April 6, according to The Blast.
The Sky’s front office wished the Victoria’s Secret model well after announcing that the move was made in the best interest of everyone involved.
“Angel has achieved many record-breaking milestones in her first two years in the WNBA and has been a competitive force for the Sky. We are thankful for her many important contributions to this league and this game, and we know she will continue to have a big impact on the court and beyond,” Jeff Pagliocca said.
Her trade came after the LSU alum said she was considering going in a “different direction” in 2025.
“I’m so excited for this new chapter,” Reese said about the start of the new year. “[Atlanta] has its own energy too, Black excellence, culture, fashion, music. I feel at home.”
Reese Just Made WNBA History
According to a previous report from The Blast, Reese made WNBA history on May 9, 2026.
After recording 11 points and 14 rebounds, the 24-year-old secured her 50th double-double, making her the fastest player to achieve the feat in 65 games.