Napheesa Collier minced no words when talking about the “hatred” around the league towards players, noting that it wasn’t just the likes of sophomore stars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese who were facing massive criticism.
The Minnesota Lynx superstar weighed in on how the troubling trend of fans targeting WNBA stars with hateful remarks and scathing comments has seen a sharp rise. Collier, who is in the middle of a WNBA MVP-caliber season, shared her thoughts on the disturbing developments that have some players facing intense criticism.
Napheesa Collier Calls Out Fans Spewing Vitriol on WNBA Players, Including Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese
Speaking on “A Touch More” podcast, hosted by WNBA legend Sue Bird and USWNT icon Megan Rapinoe, Collier called out fans for the unwarranted criticism and personal attacks on WNBA stars.
“You know what is kind of surprising, and disappointing, honestly, it is getting so toxic,” the WNBA All-Star said. “I feel like in our league, with a lot of the fans going back and forth. Basketball and sports are supposed to be so unifying, and it is so toxic, like every game, it is hatred out there toward other players — and not just Angel and Caitlin.”
Collier’s take comes on the back of the league’s investigation into the reported hate comments on Reese during the Chicago Sky’s game against the Indiana Fever. Reports emerged that the forward was subjected to “racial” comments at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
“They are the OGs where people will get so polarizing with, but it’s with everyone, and people are just so nasty on there, and it’s like, ‘We’re playing a game,’ and you are saying hateful things about players,” Collier added.
“That I feel like has been surprising, and I feel like we’re trending in a really bad spot with that.” The outrage was observed last season as well, with numerous players saying they had to deal with harassment, racism, and misogynistic comments.
On the season front, Collier continues to dominate the floor with her electric performances. The forward is coming off a 30-point blitz to beat defending champions New York Liberty earlier this week. The Lynx have been one of the teams to beat this season with their brilliant 23-5 record.
Much of their dominance has been due to Collier’s scintillating run as she averages 23.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while shooting 53.7% from the field and 35.9% from the 3-point line. Only time will tell if she can continue her excellent performance and lead Minnesota to its fifth WNBA title.
