During the All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis, Minnesota Lynx players Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman attracted widespread attention for their 72-hour StudBudz livestream, offering fans intimate access to the event. This stream caught the eye of Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, who suggested the duo should have their own TV show. However, former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL star and current analyst Ryan Clark has cautioned the StudBudz to carefully consider partnering with Portnoy due to his prior contentious remarks about Angel Reese, a rising star in women’s basketball.
Clark addressed the issue on The Pivot podcast and shared his perspective on social media platform X. He emphasized the importance of Williams and Hiedeman understanding their audience and maintaining respect during any exchange with Portnoy, given Portnoy’s public disdain toward Angel Reese. Clark pointed out the risks involved in the collaboration, advising accountability if the meeting occurs.
“@CourtMWilliams & Natasha have to understand their priorities & their fan base. They have to be able to have a real conversation, with real respect. @stoolpresidente’s hate for Angel Reese has been well stated, & reiterated.
“So, if he sits down they have to hold him accountable. It’s a massive opportunity, but not one without risk.”
—Ryan Clark, Former NFL Player and Analyst
Public Reactions Highlight Divisions Among Fans on the Portnoy-StudBudz Debate
Fans quickly responded to the controversy arising from the proposed collaboration between Portnoy and the Lynx teammates, and to Clark’s warnings. Some voices challenged the notion that tensions only exist within Ryan Clark’s fan base, asserting that conflicts regarding Angel Reese have involved passionate groups from multiple sides throughout college basketball’s recent history. These discussions have sparked a broader dialogue about accountability and respect in sports media and among fan communities.
Dave Portnoy Responds Sharply to Ryan Clark’s Criticism
Shortly after Clark’s outspoken commentary, Dave Portnoy took to social media to fire back with pointed criticism of Clark, accusing him of race-baiting and targeting him personally. Portnoy condemned Clark’s repeated references to him and contrasted Clark’s actions against his own public opinions on professional athletes, highlighting personal grievances as part of the ongoing feud.
“Ryan Clark can’t go two days without talking about me. I shouldn’t dignify his existence because I know he’s a race baiter BUT apparently he’s mad I have opinions on a pro athlete while he’s out here attacking guys wives. Welcome to the (clown) show”
—Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports Founder
StudBudz Plan to Address Portnoy’s Comments About Angel Reese During Upcoming Streams
Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman have announced intentions to confront Dave Portnoy directly during any future collaboration stream, specifically questioning his previous negative remarks about Angel Reese. Their stance reflects support for Reese and a commitment to speaking openly about the controversy surrounding Portnoy’s comments.
“We’re gonna ask him, ‘Why are you talking about Angel (Reese) like that?’ Because we love her bad.”
—Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman, Minnesota Lynx Players
Upcoming Games Mark Key Moments for Minnesota Lynx Amid Ongoing Controversy
While the exact date for a Portnoy-StudBudz collaboration remains unconfirmed, Williams and Hiedeman are preparing to face the current WNBA champions in a highly anticipated match at the Target Center in Minnesota. This game serves as the first of four contests between these teams scheduled for the season, with future meetings set for August 10 in New York, August 16 in Minnesota, and August 19 back in New York. The outcome and atmosphere surrounding these games may shape public perception and influence ongoing discussions related to the Angel Reese Dave Portnoy controversy.