In a recent interview, Angel Reese, a forward for the Chicago Sky, shared her experiences with fame, revealing that she had never considered the implications of her notoriety beyond the basketball court. Following her national championship victory with LSU in 2023, Reese candidly addressed the cyberbullying and hostility she endured.
She noted that the negativity on social media escalated significantly after her championship win, prompting her to reassess her lifestyle choices.
“After I won the national championship, my whole life changed,” she shared on SportsCenter. “That was the first time I had seen negativity like that on social media. I thought I had a huge following before but had to change my whole lifestyle.” While Reese has developed emotional resilience, she acknowledged that not all athletes possess the same ability to cope with such pressures.
Angel Reese speaks on the hate and cyberbullying she faces online 🗣️
“After I won the National Championship, my whole life changed. And that was the first time I had seen negativity like that on social media… I had to change my whole lifestyle.” pic.twitter.com/zM4CCVLrnb
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 18, 2025
As she continues her WNBA career, Reese has found unexpected camaraderie among fellow players, many of whom have checked in on her well-being. For the 23-year-old, this sense of sisterhood inside the locker room has become a vital source of strength.
“This is like the closest I’ve been to these players this year,” she expressed, highlighting the contrast with her rookie season. “And that’s what I really love about this league—having sisters who care about me and knowing I can take that support and pour it back into the community.” Reese also underscored the significance of transforming her hardships into a motivational message for her teammates and the larger community.
On the court, Reese’s impact has been equally significant. Despite having played only 21 games so far this season, she averages 13.7 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, shooting 41% from the field. She is eager to represent Team Collier in the upcoming All-Star Game on Saturday, showcasing her rebounding skills, fiery demeanor, and dynamic energy that affirm her as a rising star in the league.
Although Reese’s journey from collegiate champion to WNBA player has had its share of challenges, she embraces her role as a leader. Her experiences navigating criticism and addressing mental health issues have strengthened her, not just as an athlete but also as someone who can advocate for others facing similar struggles. In a league defined by support and advocacy, Angel Reese is carving out her voice while helping others find theirs.
Image Source: Angel Reese @ Instagram
