Angel Reese’s impact on college basketball goes far beyond her statistics on the court. She embodies the spirit of leadership, versatility, and determination, becoming a Zillennial disruptor in sports. With her talent and commitment to being the best, Reese continues to redefine the possibilities for collegiate women in basketball, inspiring a new generation of players and fans with her remarkable journey.
Yesterday, the 21-year-old announced her decision to enter the 2024 WNBA draft on Vogue. “I’ve won a national championship, I’ve gotten [Southeastern Conference] Player of the Year, I’ve been an All-American,” she says. “My ultimate goal is to be a pro—and to be one of the greatest basketball players to play, ever. I feel like I’m ready.”
Throughout this journey, Reese has solidified her cultural place with her grit and authenticity, even through critiques and backlash. Off the court, Reese’s influence extends to inspiring the next generation of basketball players, particularly young girls who aspire to follow in her footsteps. Her impact transcends the boundaries of the basketball court, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and motivate future generations.
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ALBANY, NEW YORK – APRIL 01: Angel Reese at the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament held at MVP Arena on April 1, 2024, in Albany, New York. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
Her impact on the sport is undeniable as Reese continues to make waves in college basketball. She has established herself as a force to be reckoned with, earning accolades and respect from teammates, coaches, and fans. Whether leading her team to victory on game day or serving as an ambassador for the sport off the court, Reese’s influence will be felt for years, shaping the future of women’s basketball and inspiring countless individuals.
After a massive breakout year following the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball national championship, Reese has faced the public eye with confidence, even when she is overwhelmed by her newfound fame. “I wrote down: ‘People are going to doubt me thinking I got too Hollywood, I got too big-headed,’” she tells Vogue. “But I said I was going to be SEC Player of the Year, and I was SEC Player of the Year.”
Through her manifesto, she’s reached major heights that pave the way for the next generation. Still, like many powerful Black women who become a changemaker, the Gen Z’er has faced constant criticism and backlash rooted in misogyny, racism and sexism.
From being labeled a “villain,” to being conceited, the public has continued to target Reese for simply playing at her highest capability like a male basketball player does. For so long this continues to be the narrative for Black women, yet they’re still not granted the space to be multifaceted and confident individuals, especially in their profession.
“I’ve been so many things, and I’ve stood strong every single time,” she says during a post-game press conference. “I just try to stand strong for my teammates because I don’t want them to see me down and not be there for them. I’m still a human.”
With social media moving at high speed often many users don’t view the people in viral clips and interviews and human. Angel Reese is still a young woman who is experiencing Zillennial problems on a massive scale, yet not granted any grace.
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ALBANY, NEW YORK – APRIL 01: Angel Reese #10 of the LSU Lady Tigers looks for an open shot while guarded by Hannah Stuelke #45 of the Iowa Hawkeyes during the Elite Eight round of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament held at MVP Arena on April 1, 2024 in Albany, New York. (Photo by Greg Fiume/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
Throughout the years, it’s no secret that Black women are the butt of the joke. Online and in-person critics continue to place an agenda to humble a successful and confident Black woman. Yet, their talents and capabilities continue to help them rise to the occasion.
Angel Reese’s name is cemented in several spaces, from sports to business, because she’s unapologetically herself. With her entering the WNBA draft, the next chapter of her story is helping future college athletes shine their light despite naysayers trying to dim it.
“I want to start at the bottom again,” she tells Vogue. “I want to be a rookie again and build myself back up; I want to be knocked down and learn and grow at the next level.”
About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.