Angel Reese has been under fire lately, but she’s got a real one in her corner. After the Chicago Sky’s 85-66 loss to the New York Liberty on Tuesday, veteran guard Ariel Atkins came to Reese’s defense in a heartfelt post-game moment that went viral for all the right reasons.

Atkins shut down all the noise aimed at the 23-year-old rookie, choosing instead to highlight Reese’s composure under pressure.

“So, whatever questions y’all got about our team, basketball-wise, we appreciate it. But all the other nonsense, like, it’s irrelevant. We’re here to play basketball and do what we do. We’re having a hard time right now,” Atkins told the media.

She didn’t stop there. With Reese sitting beside her, Atkins doubled down on her support.

“This is a 23-year-old kid who handles herself with grace. Her crown is heavy. So whatever else, like, y’all want to come at her for the way that she acts, she has to build the wall,” she added.

It wasn’t just Reese who appreciated Atkins’ words. NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo reposted the press conference clip and gave a virtual fist bump to Atkins.

“That’s a great teammate right there

,” wrote the former MVP and NBA champion.

May 31, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) is blocked by Dallas Wings forward NaLyssa Smith (1) during the first half at College Park Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images

Giannis, fresh off a first-round playoff exit with the Bucks against the Indiana Pacers, took a moment to show that greatness isn’t just about stats — it’s about how you ride for your people.

Angel Reese, who’s quickly become the face of the Sky since being selected seventh overall in the 2024 draft, reposted the video and let the world know how much the moment meant to her.

“Love my Vet man

,” she wrote on X, referring to Atkins.

LOOK: Angel Reese Puts In Effort To Finish Better Under The Rim After Shooting 31% 25 May 31, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) shoots as Dallas Wings forward Myisha Hines-Allen (2) defends during the first half at College Park Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images

As Atkins spoke during the presser, Reese sat beside her with a quiet smile — a small but powerful moment between teammates.

The Sky are off to a tough 2-7 start this season, and unfairly, some fans have pinned the blame on Reese. Despite the pressure, she’s putting up solid rookie numbers: 10.1 points and 12.1 rebounds per game, though her field goal percentage sits at 35.8%.

LOOK: Angel Reese Puts In Effort To Finish Better Under The Rim After Shooting 31% 27 May 29, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) and guard Rebecca Allen (9) attempt to steal the ball from Dallas Wings center Teaira McCowan (15) during the second half at the Wintrust Arena. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

But with leaders like Atkins backing her up and the team still coming together, Reese is clearly not alone in this journey — and she’s got a squad that’s ready to fight through the noise.