Claressa Shields wasn't happy after losing BET award to Angel Reese: 'I just thought accolades mattered'
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese had an excellent rookie season after a standout career at LSU. In her first season with the Sky, Reese averaged 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds. That performance earned Reese an All-Star nod, a spot on the All-Rookie team and some down ballot MVP votes.
It was also enough for Reese to secure her third straight BET Sportswoman of the Year award. Reese — who was up against a number of big-name candidates — won the honor during the BET Awards on Monday.
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One of those candidates, however, wasn't pleased about the decision. Boxer Claressa Shields expressed disappointment over losing out on the award, saying, "I just thought accolades mattered."
Shields expanded on those thoughts in additional tweets, saying she has more accolades and has experienced more success in her field than Reese. Shields also called the award a "popularity contest."
Shields has accomplished quite a bit over her career. She's a two-time Olympic gold medalist who is a perfect 16-0 in her boxing career. She's been nominated for the BET Sportswoman of the Year award two other times, but lost out to Simone Biles in 2020 and Naomi Osaka in 2021.
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While Shields has experienced plenty of success, the award only takes the previous year into consideration. Shields won the WBO light heavyweight and WBC heavyweight titles in 2024, but only took part in one fight.
Reese, by comparison, finished out her college career, got drafted and excelled in the WNBA. She accomplished quite a bit last year.
After receiving some backlash, Shields said she's "not joining in on any hate train" for Reese.
Shields' comments came prior to the Sky's 85-66 loss to the New York Liberty on Tuesday. Following the contest, Reese's teammate, Ariel Atkins, praised Reese for the way she continues to show up and play well despite the criticism she receives online.
Reese led the Sky with 17 points and 11 rebounds in the loss.
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