Nov 5, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17) shoots the ball in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Michael Porter Jr. WNBA Controversy

Originally posted on Stadium Rant | By Levi Omeke | Last updated Nov 23, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Brooklyn Nets small forward Michael Porter Jr. says he wants people to stop comparing WNBA players to men and claims he would’ve dominated the WNBA as an eighth grader. Former WNBA player Angel McCoughtry goes off on Porter Jr. telling him to come to a WNBA practice to really see what’s going on.

“If you notice real quick, the elites—Kobe—don’t say this kind of stuff about us,” McCoughtry stated . She mentioned that Kobe Bryant only uplifted and supported us.

Male vs. Female Athletes

Porter Jr. raises an important point regarding the ability of men’s varsity high school teams to defeat WNBA teams. If there is indeed ‘no difference’ between men and women in sports, that assertion should apply equally to competitive performance, not solely to effort.

Porter Jr. is candid regarding his capabilities and the inherent advantages he possesses when competing against women. This situation reflects a natural physical disparity, similar to the challenges faced by average individuals who are unable to compete with NBA players.

McCoughtry advocates for uplifting individuals rather than diminishing their contributions. She maintains an unbiased stance, asserting that everyone deserves respect for their efforts and accomplishments.

Many discussions about pay disparities stem from professional women’s basketball. Several WNBA players assert that they deserve compensation similar to that of NBA players and claim they have the ability to compete against them.

End Of My Michael Porter Jr. WNBA Rant

Nov 18, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17) shoots a three point shot against Boston Celtics guard Baylor Scheierman (55) and forward Sam Hauser (30) during the fourth quarter at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

It is inappropriate to demean women; however, conveying the truth should not be considered degrading. Furthermore, it is important to recognize that men’s sports tend to be more physically demanding.

The WNBA started with a 34-game season and has grown to 44 games this year. Even if a woman plays all her games, a man load-managing can still play 20 more games if he only participates in three-quarters of the 82-game season.

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: