Near the conclusion of Game 3 in the 2026 WNBA Finals, Angel Reese directed a “too small” taunt toward the Golden State Valkyries’ bench. That game, Reese’s double-double performance helped the Atlanta Dream take a 2-1 lead in the series. However, the Valkyries quickly recovered and went on to win the championship, with Gabby Williams delivering a 30-point game in the decisive Game 7, earning the Finals MVP award. During the Valkyries’ victory parade in the Bay Area on Wednesday, former Golden State Warriors center Festus Ezeli referenced Reese’s taunt by mimicking the “too small” gesture while holding a shirt featuring Reese’s image.
Ezeli’s playful act sparked a wave of criticism towards Reese from fans. One social media user remarked, “She getting clowned by a whole city.” Conversely, other supporters praised Reese, with one fan observing, “The time that Reese spends on the minds of others is actually quite impressive.”
On the night Reese made the viral taunt, she scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, becoming the first player to record a double-double in her first three WNBA Finals appearances. Yet, her performance declined afterward, with single-digit scoring in Atlanta’s losses during Games 4 and 5. She showed some resurgence with a 15-point, 14-rebound game in Game 6 but was limited to just eight points in the winner-takes-all Game 7.
In other news, Angel Reese recently announced via Instagram that she will be pausing her “Unapologetically Angel” podcast for the next six months, dedicating the offseason to personal rest and growth. She shared on her Instagram account @barbieeearchive that she plans to focus on working out, building her personal brand quietly, and supporting her partner while living in Florida. During the busy months of September and October, she not only helped lead Atlanta deep into the playoffs but also secured a gold medal at the FIBA World Cup. Now, Reese aims to slow down and prioritize her well-being before the 2027 WNBA season begins.
Fan Take: This update on Angel Reese highlights the intense spotlight rising stars face in the WNBA, both on and off the court. Her decision to take a step back this offseason signals a growing awareness of athlete wellness, which is crucial for the league’s continued growth and the personal development of its players.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
