** Atkins Stands Strong for Reese Amid Criticism in WNBA

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In the world of professional basketball, stardom often comes with a hefty price tag of scrutiny, and Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky is no exception. Following a challenging game against the New York Liberty—where the Sky fell 85-66—Reese’s teammate Ariel Atkins stepped up to defend her amidst a barrage of criticism aimed at the young forward.

At just 23 years old, Reese has become one of the most discussed figures in the WNBA, yet the attention isn’t always positive. Atkins, who plays alongside Reese, expressed her admiration and support for the talented player during a press conference. “This young woman faces relentless negativity every single day, and through it all, she continues to show up and perform,” Atkins stated, emphasizing Reese’s resilience and commitment to her craft.

Atkins highlighted the pressures Reese endures, stating, “Her crown is heavy. It’s essential for her to build a wall around herself to guard against this negativity. If she doesn’t, the weight of the scrutiny can become overwhelming.” This heartfelt defense comes in light of Reese’s current struggles on the court, which have been compounded by a drop in shooting efficiency—currently hovering under 36%. Despite these challenges, Reese managed to contribute 17 points and 11 rebounds in the recent game, illustrating her potential even in tough times.

As reported by CBS Sports, the Chicago Sky’s recent performance has been less than stellar, with their record now standing at 2-6. The team is undoubtedly feeling the pressure of the season, and the weight of expectations can be particularly heavy for a player like Reese, who has been in the spotlight since her collegiate days.

Atkins’ remarks serve not only as a defense of Reese but also as a reminder of the mental fortitude required to compete at this level. “She knows who she is, and we need to respect that,” Atkins added, reinforcing the notion that resilience is key in overcoming the challenges of professional sports.

The Sky’s coaching staff and fans alike hope that with continued support and encouragement, Reese can regain her footing and elevate her game. The pressure on young athletes can be intense, especially in a league that is growing more competitive by the day. The Sky will need Reese to find her rhythm if they are to turn their season around and strive for a playoff spot.

As the season progresses, it will be crucial for Reese to lean on her teammates like Atkins, who are willing to defend her and remind her to embrace the journey, despite the pitfalls that may arise. With the right mindset and continued support, Angel Reese has the potential to rise above the criticism and reclaim her spot as one of the league’s standout talents.

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