Angel Reese, the Chicago Sky’s dynamic forward, has never shied away from speaking her mind, and her recent comments about her role in boosting the WNBA’s relevance have sparked widespread discussion. In June 2024, Reese declared on *Good News Sports TV*, “The reason why we’re watching women’s basketball is not just because of one person. It’s because of me, too. I want y’all to realize that.” This statement, reflecting her confidence and competitive fire, underscores her impact both on and off the court during her rookie season, which has contributed significantly to the league’s soaring popularity. Reese’s contributions, paired with her unapologetic persona, have made her a pivotal figure in the WNBA’s evolving landscape.
Reese’s rookie year was nothing short of historic. Selected seventh overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, she quickly established herself as a dominant force, averaging 13.6 points and a league-leading 13.1 rebounds per game. Her record-setting 15 consecutive double-doubles and 26 total double-doubles—the most ever by a rookie—cemented her as a rebounding phenom. She briefly held the WNBA single-season rebound record with 446 before a wrist injury sidelined her for the final six games, allowing A’ja Wilson to surpass her with 451. Reese’s on-court prowess earned her a WNBA All-Star nod and a second-place finish in Rookie of the Year voting, trailing only Caitlin Clark. Her ability to dominate the boards and compete against veterans like Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones showcased her readiness for the professional stage.
Beyond her stats, Reese’s larger-than-life personality and marketability have amplified the WNBA’s visibility. Known as “Chi Barbie,” she has leveraged her “Bayou Barbie” college persona into a brand that resonates with fans. Her pre-game fashion, tunnel walks, and endorsement deals with Reebok, Tampax, and Beats by Dre have made her a cultural influencer. Reese’s podcast, *Unapologetically Angel*, launched in September 2024, has drawn high-profile guests like Dwyane Wade, further expanding her reach. Her appearance on the cover of *Vogue* in 2025 and her role in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, where she won a championship with Rose BC, highlight her ability to transcend basketball. These off-court endeavors have attracted new audiences, with sold-out arenas and record TV ratings reflecting the WNBA’s growing appeal.
Reese’s claim about her impact is not without merit. Alongside peers like Clark and Kamilla Cardoso, she has helped usher in a new era for the WNBA, drawing celebrities to games and fueling debates about the sport’s cultural significance. However, her outspokenness has sparked controversy. Some critics argue her focus on branding overshadows her game, while others, like ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo, praise her unmatched rebounding and potential. Reese’s comments about WNBA salaries—calling her $73,439 rookie contract insufficient to cover her $8,000 monthly rent—have also ignited discussions about pay equity, especially as the league negotiates a new Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Despite a challenging 13-27 season for the Sky, Reese’s competitive drive and vision for winning, expressed ahead of the 2025 opener against Clark’s Indiana Fever, signal her intent to elevate her team. Her blend of on-court dominance, cultural influence, and fearless advocacy ensures Angel Reese is not just a star but a catalyst for the WNBA’s rising relevance.
