“If Angel Reese Were White, She Would Be No.1 – Not No.13”: Examining the WNBA All-Star Snub Debate

The WNBA is no stranger to debate, but this week, the conversation has reached a fever pitch following a controversial All-Star voting outcome. Angel Reese, one of the league’s brightest stars, has found herself at the center of controversy after finishing 13th in the All-Star rankings despite leading the fan vote by a significant margin.

Monica McNutt, a respected voice in women’s sports commentary, didn’t hold back. “If Angel Reese were white, she would be No.1 – not No.13,” McNutt stated, sparking a heated discussion about race, recognition, and fairness in women’s professional basketball. Her remarks have fueled suspicions that Reese’s exclusion from the top rankings could be influenced by racial bias, an accusation that has reignited long-standing debates about equality in sports.

Reese’s impact on the court has been undeniable. Known for her dominant play, leadership, and electrifying performances, she has consistently delivered statistics and moments that few can match. This season alone, Reese has led her team in scoring and rebounds, often carrying her squad in clutch situations. From a purely performance-based perspective, her exclusion from the top All-Star positions is difficult to justify.

The WNBA, however, has offered an explanation rooted in their voting system. All-Star selections involve a combination of fan, player, and media votes, each weighted differently. While Reese’s fan vote was outstanding, it appears the combined results from media and player ballots contributed to her lower placement. The league maintains that the process is designed to balance popularity with professional evaluation, yet many argue that it inadvertently marginalizes the voices of fans, particularly when they overwhelmingly support a standout player.

Critics say this explanation, while technically accurate, fails to address a deeper concern: whether systemic biases—racial or otherwise—play a role in how votes are cast and evaluated. Reese’s snub has drawn comparisons to other moments in sports history where players of color were overlooked despite clear dominance, raising uncomfortable questions about the visibility and recognition of Black athletes in women’s basketball.

Fans have been vocal on social media, using hashtags and posts to highlight Reese’s achievements and call out the perceived injustice. Many argue that when a player leads the fan vote, that should carry significant weight, and failing to reflect this in the final ranking undermines the fan experience. Others see the situation as a broader commentary on the intersection of race, media influence, and sports governance—a reminder that even in 2025, athletes are still fighting for recognition on and off the court.

Angel Reese herself has remained poised amidst the controversy, focusing on her performance and her team’s goals. Her humility and dedication continue to earn respect from teammates, coaches, and competitors alike, but the All-Star snub has sparked a necessary dialogue about fairness and equality in professional sports.

As discussions continue, one thing is clear: Reese’s influence goes beyond points and rebounds. Her presence in the league challenges norms, sparks debate, and inspires the next generation of players. Whether this All-Star controversy is a momentary oversight or part of a larger pattern remains to be seen—but it has certainly forced the WNBA and its fans to confront questions about race, recognition, and the true meaning of merit in sports.

In the end, the debate over Angel Reese’s All-Star ranking is more than just numbers on a ballot. It’s about visibility, respect, and the courage to challenge a system that may not always reflect the talent in front of it. Fans, analysts, and players alike are now watching closely, waiting to see how the league responds and what lessons can be learned from this moment. One thing is certain: Angel Reese’s star is shining brighter than ever, regardless of where she ranks.