Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese has quickly become one of the most talked-about rookies in the WNBA. Despite not being a top-three selection in the 2024 Draft, Reese's popularity has skyrocketed thanks to her exceptional play on the court and her outspoken personality off it.
Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese may not have been a top-three selection in the 2024 WNBA Draft, but her popularity has been just as high as any rookie presently in the league.
Reese's status as a star player at LSU took off with a national title win in 2022 and a budding rivalry with Caitlin Clark. Her popularity scored her lucrative name, image and likeness deals but also drew hate and criticism her way.
That was apparent on Saturday when she appeared to cheer on her teammate Chennedy Carter following a hip-check on Clark. Reese was then fined $1,000 for skipping postgame media availability.
On Monday, Reese talked to reporters about the spotlight on her and her team. She said she'll take the good with the bad, and if that means playing the villain, then so be it.
"It all started from the national championship game," Reese said." I've been dealing with this for two years now. Understanding, yeah, negative things have probably been said about me, but honestly, I'll take that because look where women's basketball is. People are talking about women's basketball (who) you would never think would be talking about women's basketball.
"People are pulling up to games. We got celebrities coming to games, sold out arenas, just because of one single game. And just look at that. I'll take that role. I'll take the bad guy role. And I'll continue to take that on and be that villain for my teammates. If I wanna be that, I know I'll go down in history. I'll look back in 20 years like 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."
Through seven games, 10.6 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. She's seventh in rebounds per game across the entire league.
For some, Reese's outspoken nature and willingness to embrace the villain role may come off as arrogant or disrespectful. However, her teammates and coaches appreciate her passion and leadership.
"Angel is a fierce competitor who plays with a lot of heart and emotion," said Sky coach James Wade. "She's not afraid to speak her mind, and she's always willing to stand up for her teammates. I think that's one of the things that makes her so special."
Reese's teammates share Wade's sentiments, and they appreciate her willingness to take on the villain role.
"Angel is a great teammate who always has our backs," said Sky guard Courtney Vandersloot. "She's not afraid to speak her mind, and she's always willing to stand up for what she believes in. I think that's one of the things that makes her so special."
While Reese embraces the villain role, she is also aware of the impact she can have on young girls who are watching her play.
"I want to show young girls that it's okay to be different," Reese said. "It's okay to be yourself, and it's okay to be confident in who you are. I want to show them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to, no matter what obstacles they face."
Reese's journey to the WNBA has been an inspiring one, and she is proof that anything is possible if you work hard and believe in yourself. She is a role model for young girls everywhere, and she is sure to continue to make a positive impact on the game of basketball.
