WNBA Stars Combat “Fake News” with “StudBudz” Stream

Players Showcase Unity Amidst Rising Scrutiny

WNBA athletes Collier, Reeve, and Williams are leveraging their new “StudBudz” stream to challenge negative perceptions of the league, aiming to counter online narratives that often portray players as bitter rivals.

Addressing Online Vitriol

Reeve, who has consistently faced sexist commentary, described the past weekend as “cathartic.” She noted a surge in hostility directed at the league, exacerbated by the 2024 rookie class and an influx of new, less familiar fans.

While specific instances weren’t detailed, speculation has surfaced about veteran players feeling envy towards newcomers like Clark.

“As you saw, you can be competitive and you can have moments on the court, but then they all genuinely care about each other and root for each other,” Reeve said. “That was, I thought, one of the best things that came from [‘StudBudz’] — to show what really exists and drown out the stuff that’s fake news.”

Community Highlighted

Williams echoed this sentiment, stating it was “dope” for fans to witness the genuine community within the WNBA. She emphasized the strong bonds and mutual support among players.

“Like the gay community, the girly community, the W community — we show each other love all the time,“ Williams shared. ”So I think it was nice just to have everybody be able to, kind of, look in on how we give it up.”

This focus on camaraderie comes at a crucial time for the league. For instance, the WNBA saw a 37% increase in viewership for its opening week in 2024 compared to the previous year, highlighting growing mainstream interest (ESPN, 2024).

Shifting Narratives

The “StudBudz” initiative is designed to provide an authentic look into the players’ lives and relationships, directly countering the “fake news” and manufactured rivalries that have plagued the league’s public image.

By showcasing their genuine support for one another, Reeve, Williams, and Collier hope to foster a more positive and accurate understanding of the WNBA and its athletes.