The spotlight can be harsh for athletes, especially with the rise of online trolling, a challenge increasingly visible in the WNBA as the league’s viewership grows. On Friday, Minnesota Lynx guard Courtney Williams offered straightforward advice on handling negativity on social media. Speaking during media duties for the Lynx’s game against the LA Sparks, Williams emphasized the importance of ignoring online trolls and removing harmful distractions.
Williams explained her method bluntly when asked about navigating the WNBA’s rising visibility: she suggests simply cutting off toxic interactions by blocking offenders and detaching from the online hostility.
“Honestly, I think you just have to be built for it; the internet is not a real place,” she said. “Bro, you don’t know these people in real life, just press the block button… take your time one night, delete everything then block everybody and then you don’t got to worry about it no more.”
This candid approach resonated with many fans who praised Williams’ perspective across social media platforms.
“The rest of the WNBA and their fans need to pump this into their locker rooms,” wrote a fan.
“I like her more and more, I see her man,” expressed another.
“I love Courtney, her attitude has been amazing and I hope she’s blessed for it,” commented a third.
In the midst of the positive feedback, one fan suggested Angel Reese might benefit from applying Williams’ advice as well.
“Angel needs to take her advice,” the fan wrote.
Still, not everyone agreed that this approach would work universally.
“If only it was that easy for certain players,” remarked a fan.
“Good advice, but I don’t think she faces half of the scrutiny that more known players face lol.. nobody is checkin for her,” replied another.
Courtney Williams Opens Up About Officiating and Heightened WNBA Audience Attention
Courtney Williams also addressed questions concerning officiating in the WNBA, reflecting on the recent criticism officials have received amid growing league viewership. She pointed out that while refereeing standards have remained consistent, increased scrutiny has amplified public complaints.
Williams acknowledged the recent heated environment during the Fever-Sun game but maintained that physical play and robust emotions are part of basketball. She suggested the criticism stems more from the extra attention than from a change in refereeing quality.
“I don’t think it’s changed, I just think there’s more eyes on it … People love drama. If they like it, I love it. I don’t think the officiating is all terrible, you all are just now watching, it’s been this way.”
Implications of Williams’ Advice for WNBA Players and Fans
Courtney Williams’ advice highlights the growing challenges that WNBA players face as the league gains popularity, especially from increased exposure to online negativity. Her no-nonsense strategy to block out digital harassment offers a practical way for players, including Angel Reese, to protect their mental well-being. Fans’ mixed reactions reflect differing realities for players with varying levels of fame and scrutiny.
As WNBA viewership continues to expand, more players will likely encounter similar scenarios, making Williams’ approach a potentially useful model for athletes navigating the pressures of social media. Additionally, her perspective on officiating criticism reminds audiences that increased visibility often brings amplified reactions, not necessarily changes in the game’s standards.