Carmelo Anthony Defends Angel Reese's Competitive Spirit Ahead of WNBA Finals

Carmelo Anthony used his "7PM in Brooklyn" show to argue that criticism of Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese often overlooks her achievements across college and professional basketball. He said the player’s energetic demeanor reflects genuine passion rather than mere showmanship, adding that fans should recognize her contributions.

"The antics a lot of times overshadow that. But it's not antics, it's passion. It's her passion," Anthony said during the broadcast. "Shout out to Angel. I just wanted to give her her flowers because that's beautiful and a lot of people won't give her flowers that way. Let her live." Reese, who rose to prominence after winning the Most Outstanding Player award in the 2023 NCAA tournament, has faced commentary about her personality and background. In an interview cited by ESPN, she explained that criticism motivated her to represent players who feel marginalized. "All year, I was critiqued for who I was. I don't fit the narrative. I'm too hood. I'm too ghetto. Y'all told me that all year. This is for the girls that look like me. For those that want to speak up for what they believe in. It's unapologetically you." The Dream, led by Reese’s postseason averages of 18.0 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.2 blocks, swept the Washington Mystics and New York Liberty to reach the finals for the first time since 2013.