Cheers and Tears: WNBA Draft Tribute to Paige Bueckers Sparks Uproar Over Angel Reese Snub
What was meant to be a heartwarming tribute during the 2025 WNBA Draft has instead stirred division and debate across the basketball world. The league’s emotional acknowledgment of UConn star Paige Bueckers, who declared she would return to college for a final season, was met with thunderous applause — but the glaring absence of a similar moment for LSU standout Angel Reese has left many fans outraged and heartbroken.
During a touching segment midway through the draft night, WNBA officials aired a tribute video celebrating Bueckers’ impact on the game, her resilience through injuries, and her commitment to growing women’s basketball. While Bueckers wasn’t entering the draft, the league took a moment to honor her legacy and contributions. The gesture was powerful — and for some, painfully exclusive.
“I love Paige, and she deserves her flowers,” said longtime WNBA supporter Jasmine Thomas. “But how can you honor one trailblazer and completely ignore another? Angel Reese has moved the culture just as much — maybe even more.”
Reese, who declared for the draft after a highly publicized college career filled with championship highlights, viral moments, and unapologetic confidence, was notably left out of any similar tribute or mention during the broadcast. While she walked the orange carpet and shared her excitement online, many fans noticed the absence of the spotlight she arguably earned.
Social media exploded within hours, with #JusticeForAngel trending across platforms. Critics pointed out that Reese’s unapologetic persona, often labeled “too bold” or “controversial,” continues to spark discomfort in some circles — especially when compared to Bueckers’ more media-friendly image.
“Angel Reese showed girls that you can be strong, passionate, and proud — and still be great,” tweeted one fan. “She deserved more than silence.”
Others argue the tribute wasn’t meant to exclude anyone but was focused solely on Bueckers’ unique decision to stay in school. Still, the emotional reaction from fans underscores a deeper issue of representation and respect for diverse personalities within women’s sports.
As the dust settles and new WNBA careers begin, the controversy has ignited necessary conversations about equity, media narratives, and who gets celebrated — and why.
For many, this draft night won’t just be remembered for who was picked, but for who was quietly passed over.
