Angel Reese is Shattering Stereotypes and Paving the Way for Black Women in Sports

Written By: Kyra Vandiver

In sports, people often celebrate authenticity and self-assurance as hallmarks of a champion. Yet, for players such as Angel Reese, embracing their identity and speaking their truth can lead to harsh scrutiny and unjust labels. Despite her unwavering commitment to being herself, critics brand Reese as arrogant, a poor sport, and even the villain. This begs the question: why are Black women consistently cast as the antagonists when they boldly express themselves?

This pattern is not unique to Reese; Black female athletes have often faced unfair scrutiny and stereotypes based solely on their race and gender. Serena Williams, arguably one of the greatest tennis players of all time, has been criticized for being too aggressive and emotional on the court, perpetuating the "angry Black woman" stereotype.

Gymnast Gabrielle Douglas encountered derogatory remarks about her hair during the 2012 Olympics, detracting from her athletic achievements.

Critics labeled tennis star Naomi Osaka as arrogant and accused her of being a poor sport for prioritizing her mental health during the 2021 French Open.

Stereotypes have depicted Black women as aggressive, confrontational, and domineering. These harmful stereotypes have permeated various facets of society, including the realm of sports, where they are often unfairly applied to Black female athletes who dare to assert themselves and challenge the status quo. This phenomenon is commonly known as the "angry Black woman" trope—a harmful stereotype that undermines the complexity and diversity of Black women's experiences.

These examples highlight the systemic inequalities that Black female athletes face, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and accountability to create a more inclusive and equitable environment in sports.

When Black women like Reese exhibit confidence, assertiveness, and passion, many frequently perceive them as threatening or disruptive, triggering discomfort among those accustomed to traditional power dynamics. Moreover, the intersectionality of race and gender compounds the challenges that Black women face in sports. While people often celebrate confidence and assertiveness in their male counterparts, they hold Black women to a different, more stringent standard that demands humility and deference. This double standard undermines their achievements and perpetuates systemic inequalities within the world of sports.

The portrayal of Black women as the "bad guys" when they are loud and proud reflects broader issues of systemic racism and misogyny that continue to plague society. As Angel Reese continues to navigate her journey in basketball, it is essential to recognize and challenge the biases and stereotypes that undermine her and other Black women athletes. By amplifying their voices, celebrating their achievements, and advocating for their right to express themselves authentically, we can strive towards a future where we celebrate Black women for their strength, confidence, and unwavering determination to be themselves, not vilify them.