Rebecca Lobo’s Bizarre On-Air Trump Praise and Forced Reversal Sparks WNBA Broadcast Drama

WNBA Commentator Rebecca Lobo Apologizes On-Air After Saying America Is ‘Great’
By Oliver Salt | Updated: 13:49 BST, 23 June 2025

[Image: Rebecca Lobo during the ESPN broadcast]

WNBA legend and ESPN commentator Rebecca Lobo sparked confusion during Sunday’s Las Vegas Aces vs. Indiana Fever game after abruptly retracting a comment praising America—a phrase some viewers linked to Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) slogan.

During a discussion about a foul call, Lobo—a 1999 WNBA All-Star—told colleague Pam Ward: “That’s what makes America great, right?” The remark drew an awkward silence, prompting Lobo to backtrack: “I should rephrase that.” Ward redirected, stating, “Differences of opinion are perfectly fine,” to which Lobo replied, “Yes, that’s a better way to say it. Sorry about that.”

[Image: Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson battling for the ball]

Fans criticized the exchange on social media, with many calling the apology unnecessary. One user wrote, “Disgraceful! Someone in the booth told her to rephrase. Not everything is political.” Others blasted ESPN’s perceived hypersensitivity, with comments like *“Imagine being offended about saying America is great. F**in losers.”

Lobo, a 1996 Olympic gold medalist and former New York Liberty star, has been an ESPN analyst since 2004. The incident occurred during a heated game where the Aces defeated Caitlin Clark’s Fever 88–82.

[Image: Donald Trump at a rally holding a MAGA sign]

While Lobo’s phrasing echoed Trump’s campaign slogan, there was no indication her comment was politically motivated. Critics argued the overcorrection highlighted growing tensions around neutral statements being scrutinized.

The Fever, led by rookie Clark, have struggled this season (7-12 record), while the Aces—anchored by two-time MVP A’ja Wilson—remain title contenders.

[Image: ESPN broadcast team during the game]

Lobo has not addressed the incident further. The moment underscores the challenges commentators face in politically charged environments, where even innocuous remarks risk backlash.

Reactions Online:

• “Clearly not political. Just a general statement.”
• “Pathetic moment.”
• “ESPN needs to chill. Let analysts speak freely.”

[Image: WNBA All-Star logo]

As the WNBA season continues, the focus remains on rising stars like Clark and veterans like Wilson—but Lobo’s stumble serves as a reminder that off-court moments can dominate headlines too.