Shaquille O’Neal has voiced his frustration over the ongoing criticism faced by Angel Reese and Lauren Betts, asserting that it has reached an intolerable level. Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, O’Neal, who has mentored Reese since her time at LSU, expressed a desire to protect her from the harsh scrutiny she endures. He stated, 'I wish I could punch some of these guys in the face that just pick on my Angel and pick on my Lauren [Betts]. But I have to be professional.' O’Neal highlighted how some media personalities exploit the names of these young athletes for attention, turning them into content targets rather than treating them with the respect they deserve. He criticized the current media landscape, where amateurs feel entitled to comment on professional athletes without accountability. O’Neal's comments underscore his loyalty to Reese and Betts, emphasizing that they should not be mere subjects of criticism but recognized for their talents and contributions to the sport.