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Michelle Obama Defends Angel Reese Amid Media Criticism

4/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

First Lady Michelle Obama defended Angel Reese on her “IMO” podcast, urging an end to criticism.
Michelle Obama praised Angel Reese’s spirit and noted Craig Robinson said media manufactures drama, likening athletes to reality-TV.
Being traded to Atlanta Dream for two picks, Angel Reese, 2024 seventh-overall pick, leads league with 12.6 rebounds per game.
Angel Reese said she would rather pay a $10,000 fine than endure a media session.

History

Historical Context

Title IX, signed into law on June 23 1972, sparked a surge in women’s athletics—by 2006 college participation had risen over 450 %. The law’s 40th-anniversary celebrations in 2012 featured figures like Billie Jean King and President Obama. Today, former First Lady Michelle Obama’s defense of Angel Reese on the “IMO” podcast echoes that legacy, highlighting ongoing media equity battles.

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Story summary

First Lady Michelle Obama defended Angel Reese on her “IMO” podcast, urging an end to criticism.
Michelle Obama praised Angel Reese’s spirit and noted Craig Robinson said media manufactures drama, likening athletes to reality-TV.
Being traded to Atlanta Dream for two picks, Angel Reese, 2024 seventh-overall pick, leads league with 12.6 rebounds per game.
Angel Reese said she would rather pay a $10,000 fine than endure a media session.

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