“I Thought Accolades Mattered” Claressa Shields Responds After Angel Reese Takes BET Sportswoman of the Year

Whoa, this just was said … Claressa Shields had a few words for the public after coming up short at the 2025 BET Awards, where rising basketball star Angel Reese was crowned Sportswoman of the Year. The boxing champ took to X shortly after the ceremony on June 9 to voice her honest reaction to the result.

“Still don’t know how I didn’t win the Sportswoman of the Year for the BET Awards, but Congrats to Angel Reese and all the other nominees. I just thought accolades mattered” Shields tweeted.

Her candid message sparked immediate feedback online. Some users criticized her for speaking out, suggesting that she should take the high road instead.

“Girl don’t get on here complaining. You’re talented, don’t let that get overshadowed because you appear to come not as a sore loser. Just delete the tweet say congratulations and keep it moving” one commenter posted.

Despite the criticism, Claressa quickly cleared the air and made it known she holds no ill will toward Reese. In a follow-up post, she wrote, “Ain’t nobody saying Angel Reese don’t have accolades or she not good…. I’m saying I thought the person with ‘THE MOST’ accolades and accomplishments would win the Award. I’m team Angel Reese!”

She continued to clarify her stance in another tweet, emphasizing her respect for all the women nominated. “I’m not joining in on any hate train when it comes to Angel Reese, I have mad respect for her and all the other female athletes that excel in their sport. As for my earlier comments I am allowed to express my feelings, I was shocked I didn’t win, I was under the impression the category was graded on accolades of your sport. It’s ok to be a competitor.”

That part.