Angel Reese is one of the most influential figures in modern women’s basketball, known for her dominance on the court, unapologetic confidence, and massive cultural impact off it. Nicknamed “Bayou Barbie,” Reese has evolved from a highly touted high school prospect into an NCAA champion, WNBA All-Star, and global sports icon.
From record-breaking college performances to redefining NIL opportunities and fashion crossover in women’s sports, Angel Reese represents a new era of athlete stardom.
Angel Reese Personal Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Angel C. Reese |
| Date of Birth | May 6, 2002 |
| Age | 23 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Randallstown, Maryland, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Position | Power Forward / Small Forward |
| College | Maryland, LSU |
| WNBA Team | Chicago Sky |
| Nickname | Bayou Barbie |
| Draft | 2024 WNBA Draft (Chicago Sky) |
Angel Reese Basketball Journey
Angel Reese’s basketball roots run deep. A graduate of Saint Frances Academy (Baltimore), she was a McDonald’s All-American and one of the most dominant high school players in the country.
She began her college career at Maryland, where she quickly established herself as a physical force in the paint. After transferring to LSU, Reese took her game — and profile — to an entirely new level.
Despite battling injuries early in her career, Reese rebuilt her confidence and emerged as one of the most feared rebounders and interior scorers in women’s basketball.
College Career Overview
Reese reached superstardom at LSU, playing a central role in the Tigers’ 2023 NCAA National Championship run. Her intensity, rebounding ability, and clutch performances defined LSU’s identity.
She became a consistent double-double machine and one of the most talked-about athletes in college sports — not just women’s basketball.
Her rivalry moments, leadership presence, and emotional edge made her a fan favorite and a polarizing figure, further amplifying her visibility.
Angel Reese Career Stats
College Basketball Stats (Overall)
| Category | Average |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 18.6 |
| Rebounds per game | 12.3 |
| Assists per game | 2.1 |
| Steals per game | 1.4 |
| Blocks per game | 1.3 |
| Field Goal % | 49.8% |
WNBA Career Stats (Chicago Sky – Early Career)
| Season | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 13.9 | 10.4 | 2.0 | 1.3 |
| 2025 | 15.6 | 11.2 | 2.4 | 1.5 |
Records and Major Achievements
- NCAA Champion (2023 – LSU)
- NCAA All-American
- SEC Player of the Year
- First LSU player to average 20+ points and 15+ rebounds in a tournament run
- One of the fastest players in NCAA history to reach 1,000 rebounds
- WNBA All-Star selection
- Chicago Sky franchise rookie rebounding record
WNBA Career with Chicago Sky
Drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2024, Reese made an immediate impact in the WNBA. Her rebounding translated seamlessly to the pro level, where she quickly became one of the league’s most physical forwards.
She formed a strong interior presence, ranking among the league leaders in rebounds per game and earning praise for her toughness, leadership, and energy.
By her second season, Reese had firmly established herself as the franchise cornerstone.
NIL Deals, Brand Power, and Net Worth
Angel Reese is one of the highest-paid women’s basketball players of all time, even before turning pro.
Major NIL & Endorsement Deals
- Reebok (signature shoe athlete)
- McDonald’s (“Angel Reese Special”)
- Cash App
- Amazon
- Sports Illustrated Swimsuit
- NBA 2K26 (WNBA Edition cover star)
Her NIL valuation crossed $1 million during college, making her a trailblazer in athlete branding.
Cultural Impact and Media Presence
Angel Reese’s influence extends far beyond basketball:
- Featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue
- Walked in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show (first pro athlete to do so)
- Appeared in music videos with major artists
- Portrayed on Saturday Night Live
- Named to Forbes 30 Under 30
- Attended the Met Gala multiple times
She also launched her own podcast, “Unapologetically Angel,” where she discusses sports, confidence, and women’s empowerment.
Philanthropy and Social Work
Reese launched a foundation dedicated to female empowerment and youth education. She has:
- Donated tuition support to her high school alma mater
- Organized school supply drives in Baltimore
- Partnered with brands to give back to underserved communities
Her hometown honored her with a dedicated basketball court and a Key to the City of Baltimore.
FAQs
Q. Why is Angel Reese called Bayou Barbie?
A. The nickname originated during her LSU days, blending her Louisiana (“Bayou”) roots with her confident fashion-forward personality.
Q. What position does Angel Reese play?
A. She primarily plays power forward but can also operate as a small forward.
Q. Is Angel Reese one of the highest-paid women athletes?
A. Yes. Through NIL, endorsements, and WNBA contracts, she ranks among the top earners in women’s sports.
Q. Which WNBA team does Angel Reese play for?
A. She plays for the Chicago Sky in the WNBA.
Q. Does Angel Reese have a signature shoe?
A. Yes. She signed with Reebok and debuted her signature footwear line.
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