ESPN’s Monica McNutt Faces Fierce Backlash After Comparing Angel Reese to “Sid” — Viral Moment Sparks Outrage Across the Sports World
BRISTOL, CT — A casual remark on live TV has erupted into a full-blown social media firestorm. ESPN analyst Monica McNutt, known for her outspoken defense of WNBA players, stunned viewers during a recent broadcast when she likened Chicago Sky star Angel Reese to “Sid,” the sloth from Ice Age. What many assumed would be a lighthearted comment immediately spiraled into controversy, igniting outrage across platforms and putting both McNutt and ESPN under intense scrutiny.
The moment occurred during a segment analyzing Reese’s on-court dominance and expressive style. In what some say was a misjudged attempt at humor, McNutt referenced an online meme comparing Reese to the animated character. Clips of the remark quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, drawing sharp criticism from fans, analysts, and players alike.
“I couldn’t believe my ears,” one fan wrote. “Monica McNutt has been a defender of these women, and then she drops a ‘Sid’ joke? That’s shocking.” The backlash intensified as hashtags demanding accountability for McNutt began trending, with some calling for suspension and others urging ESPN to clarify the context.
The controversy is amplified by McNutt’s history. Over the past two seasons, she has been one of Reese’s most visible media supporters, calling out colleagues for biased coverage and advocating for fair treatment of Black women in sports. In May 2025, she went viral defending Reese, insisting, “You need to respect the humanity of these women.” Many fans now feel betrayed, describing the incident as a sudden reversal of her own previously protective stance.
The “Sid” comparison is far from benign. Since Reese rose to national prominence, trolls have repeatedly used the sloth meme to mock her appearance. Critics argue that McNutt’s on-air remark, intentional or not, echoed the same harassment Reese has publicly condemned. “It’s not just a cartoon character,” wrote one sports culture commentator. “It’s a dog whistle targeting her appearance. For a professional analyst to broadcast that is irresponsible and harmful.”
Angel Reese herself responded with measured yet piercing remarks on social media, emphasizing resilience while indirectly addressing the controversy. Her response immediately went viral, further fueling debate about accountability in sports media.
ESPN has since addressed the situation on-air, and McNutt issued an apology, stating, “My words missed the mark.” Yet the incident has sparked a broader discussion about representation, respect, and the responsibility of media voices covering women’s sports.
As millions continue to view and share the clip, the fallout underscores the delicate balance broadcasters must maintain: a single offhand comment can ignite worldwide debate. For Monica McNutt, a respected analyst, this is a defining moment — one that may shape both her career and the ongoing conversation about how women athletes, particularly Black women, are portrayed in sports media.
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