Angel Reese, born on May 6, 2002, in Randallstown, Maryland, is a prominent American professional basketball player known for her exceptional rebounding skills and dynamic presence on the court. Both of her parents, Angel Webb Reese and Michael Reese, were collegiate basketball players who also competed professionally overseas, instilling in her a strong basketball lineage. Her younger brother, Julian Reese, is also a basketball player.
High School Career
Reese attended St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Maryland, where she was a standout player. Initially playing as a point guard, she experienced significant growth spurts during her freshman year, transitioning into a versatile forward capable of playing multiple positions. During her high school tenure, she led her team to four consecutive Interscholastic Athletic Association of Maryland (IAAM) championships and earned selections to prestigious events such as the McDonald’s All-American Game and the Jordan Brand Classic. She graduated as the second-leading scorer in the school’s history, and her jersey number, 10, was retired in her honor.
Collegiate Career
Reese began her collegiate journey at the University of Maryland in 2020 as the highest-ranked recruit in the program’s history. Her freshman season was disrupted by a fractured right foot, limiting her participation. Despite this setback, she showcased her talent and was named a Third-Team All-American by the Associated Press in her sophomore year. Seeking new opportunities, Reese transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) for her junior season. At LSU, she made an immediate impact, leading the team to its first national championship in 2023 and earning the Most Outstanding Player award for the tournament. During that season, she set NCAA records for double-doubles and established a new Southeastern Conference (SEC) single-season rebounding record.
Professional Career
In the 2024 WNBA Draft, Reese was selected seventh overall by the Chicago Sky. She quickly adapted to the professional level, leading the league with 446 rebounds in her rookie season—the highest single-season total in WNBA history—and averaging 13.1 rebounds per game, also a league record. Her performance included 26 double-doubles, setting a new rookie record. Unfortunately, her inaugural season was cut short due to a wrist injury.
Off the Court
Beyond her on-court achievements, Reese has built an impressive business portfolio. She has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Reebok, Reese’s, and Beats by Dre. Additionally, she has invested in the women’s soccer team, DC Power Football Club, and hosts a popular podcast titled “Unapologetically Angel.” Despite her WNBA salary, these ventures have significantly bolstered her financial standing and public profile.
Recent Developments
As of February 2025, WNBA legend Lisa Leslie has expressed a commitment to mentoring Reese, particularly focusing on enhancing her finishing skills around the rim. This collaboration aims to address specific areas of Reese’s game to elevate her performance in the upcoming seasons.
Angel Reese’s journey from a promising high school talent to a record-setting professional athlete underscores her dedication, resilience, and significant impact on women’s basketball.
