Angel Reese, star forward for the Chicago Sky, has spoken out following a tense on-court altercation involving her boyfriend, Orlando Magic forward Wendell Carter Jr., during Tuesday night’s NBA Cup matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. The incident, which saw pushing, shoving, and heated exchanges between Carter and 76ers center Andre Drummond, quickly made headlines and sparked a flurry of social media commentary.

“I’ll always stand by him,” Reese told reporters in a statement released shortly after the game. “Emotions run high in professional sports, but at the end of the day, I trust him completely and I’m proud of the way he handles himself, even under pressure.”

The clash occurred late in the first half, when Carter and Drummond became entangled during defensive play. What began as a minor on-court confrontation quickly escalated, drawing in players and coaching staff from both teams. Magic guard Jalen Suggs further intensified the situation by pressing the trial-of-sorts “sabotage” button in the moment, resulting in a brief standoff that led to multiple technical fouls and ejections. Despite the chaos, the Magic went on to defeat the 76ers 144-103.

Reese’s response has been praised by fans and teammates alike for its calm, measured tone. While many spectators debated the severity of the incident and speculated on its implications for Carter’s career, Reese emphasized the importance of trust and support in a high-stakes environment. “He knows I’m here for him,” she added. “We’re a team in life as well as in love. That doesn’t change just because a moment gets heated on the court.”

The WNBA star also took the opportunity to address rumors that the confrontation might have affected her personally or professionally. “I’m focused on my season and my team, just like he is,” Reese said. “We don’t let one moment define us, and we both know how to separate the game from the relationship.”

Social media quickly responded to Reese’s statement, with fans applauding her loyalty and level-headedness. Many noted that while NBA and WNBA players face intense scrutiny and criticism, Reese’s approach models maturity and poise under public pressure. “It’s refreshing to see someone speak out in a way that supports their partner without escalating the drama,” one fan wrote on X.

As both athletes continue their respective seasons, Reese and Carter’s relationship appears as solid as ever. Her statement, emphasizing trust, support, and mutual respect, reassures fans that off-court dynamics are strong even amid the high-octane tensions of professional basketball. “We have each other’s backs, on and off the court,” Reese concluded, “and that’s all that matters.”