Minnesota Lynx players Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman announced plans to have Dave Portnoy join their podcast to address his critical comments about Angel Reese. Speaking on their Twitch channel Studbudz, Williams revealed that Portnoy verbally agreed to appear and only wants to know the time and place for the conversation.
The invitation comes amid backlash from some fans who oppose Portnoy’s previous harsh words about Reese. Williams responded firmly to these concerns, emphasizing their commitment to facing difficult discussions head-on.
“When Dave [Portnoy] comes on, we’re gonna ask him. ‘Hey, Dave, why are you talking about Angel [Reese] like that?’ You all see how simple that is? We don’t run away from conversations.”
As the more outspoken co-host, Williams made clear she will form her own opinions and resist being swayed by others. Despite resistance from viewers, she is willing to give Portnoy a fair chance to explain himself.
Background on Portnoy’s Criticism of Angel Reese
Dave Portnoy’s remarks about Angel Reese gained attention earlier this year after a heated exchange between Reese and Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever. Portnoy sided with Clark and her fans, describing Reese as an instigator, agitator and jack-a** basically for the last couple of years.
This criticism followed a hard foul by Clark on Reese, after which Portnoy suggested that Reese’s reactions warranted public criticism. His comments fueled controversy, particularly among Reese supporters and audience members of the Studbudz podcast.
Fan Reactions to the Prospect of Portnoy Joining Studbudz
The announcement that Portnoy might appear on Studbudz generated mixed responses from the podcast’s fanbase. While some listeners expressed disappointment or opposition due to his previous statements, Williams and Hiedeman remained focused on hosting the dialogue.
Although no quotes from fans were provided, the general sentiment reflected caution and unease about giving Portnoy a platform on the show. Williams, however, reaffirmed their readiness to confront his views directly and not avoid uncomfortable exchanges.
Implications of the Upcoming Discussion
The upcoming conversation with Dave Portnoy promises to be a significant moment for the Studbudz podcast, as it addresses charged topics around sportsmanship and criticism in women’s basketball. By inviting Portnoy, Williams and Hiedeman show a commitment to transparency and open dialogue despite the tension surrounding his past remarks.
This exchange may influence public perception of both Reese and Portnoy and set a tone for how athletes and commentators engage on social media and digital platforms. The response from the podcast’s audience will likely shape future content and guest invitations for both hosts.