Megan Rapinoe backs NBA star after 'taking back power' for dodging media scrutiny

Megan Rapinoe has thrown her support behind WNBA star Angel Reese's decision to dodge media sessions and simply pay whatever fines come her way.

The retired football icon spoke out on her podcast "A Touch More" on Thursday, praising Reese's approach as a bold move.

"I think Angel is a really great example of her taking her power back," Rapinoe said.

She went on to suggest that Reese had been unfairly cast as the bad guy even before joining the league.

"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," Rapinoe added.

Reese herself laid out her position during a chat with former first lady Michelle Obama on her "IMO" podcast back in late April.

The Atlanta Dream guard made it crystal clear she'd rather face financial penalties than feel trapped by reporters.

"I'll take a fine before I have to go media and feel like my back is against the wall," Reese explained.

The 23-year-old has argued that journalists have repeatedly twisted her words and pushed storylines she simply doesn't recognise as true.

Rapinoe was quick to clarify that Reese isn't planning to avoid all press duties entirely.

"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," Rapinoe noted.

Rapinoe used her platform to call for a complete rethink of how sports journalism operates, particularly in women's basketball.

"I think it's really about like a new level of respect across the board. There needs to be a quality of journalism that is at the level of these athletes," she argued.

The former US national team captain believes Reese's stance should inspire others across the sporting world.

"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," Rapinoe said, suggesting players shouldn't feel obligated to accept whatever narratives journalists throw at them.

However, not everyone shares Rapinoe's enthusiasm for this approach.

Critics point out that postgame interviews aren't simply optional extras – they're a fundamental part of being a professional athlete.

These media sessions serve as the primary way players connect with supporters and build their personal brands.

For a league still working to expand its audience, treating press availability as an inconvenience seems like an odd strategy for growth.

It's worth noting that Reese's own "Bayou Barbie" brand has been built largely through media exposure.

Rapinoe herself spent years campaigning for greater attention and respect for women's sport – making her current stance somewhat contradictory.

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