Angel Reese Makes Waves in the WNBA and Beyond

On-Court Impact

Angel Reese, forward for the Chicago Sky, has rapidly become one of the WNBA’s most influential young stars. In her rookie season, she averaged a double-double with 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, leading the league in rebounding and setting a WNBA record with 15 consecutive double-doubles as a rookie. Her relentless energy, physicality, and nose for the ball have drawn praise from legends like Lisa Leslie, who highlighted Reese’s uncanny ability to thrive in contact and her strong work ethic. Reese’s on-court achievements include:

• WNBA All-Star selection as a rookie
• Setting the single-season rookie rebounding record
• Finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting
• Earning MVP votes in her debut season

Heading into her second season, Reese has undergone a dramatic physical transformation, signaling her commitment to elevating her game and becoming a franchise cornerstone for the Sky. Her offseason included winning the inaugural Unrivaled league title and working with WNBA legends to refine her offensive skills.

Cultural and Media Influence

Reese’s influence extends well beyond basketball. She has emerged as a fashion icon, making a splash at the 2025 Met Gala for the second consecutive year and serving on the event’s host committee. Her bold fashion choices-such as her '90s-inspired look at the 2025 McDonald's All-American Game-have garnered widespread attention and praise from fellow athletes and fans alike.

Role in Growing the WNBA

Reese has been vocal about her role in the WNBA’s surging popularity, asserting that the league’s growth is not the result of just one player, but a collective movement in which she plays a significant part. Alongside fellow young star Caitlin Clark, Reese has helped attract record viewership and bring unprecedented visibility to women’s basketball, with the league drawing 54 million unique viewers last season. Their dynamic-rooted in a college rivalry-has captivated fans and contributed to the WNBA’s cultural momentum, though some analysts believe the rivalry narrative is becoming less relevant as both players continue to shine in their own right.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Reese’s journey from Maryland to LSU, where she delivered the school’s first women’s basketball national title, to becoming a household name in the WNBA, illustrates her rapid ascent and broad appeal. As she enters her second professional season, Reese is poised for a breakout campaign, both as a player and as a face of the league’s new era.

“Her influence clearly extends beyond the court. Whether it’s through her fearless fashion or unapologetic confidence, she continues to make waves in and out of the game.”

Angel Reese’s trajectory suggests she will remain a central figure in women’s basketball and popular culture for years to come.