Angel Reese has openly discussed the online harassment she has experienced from fans since her national championship win in 2023 and her subsequent entry into the WNBA the following year.
“I went through that,” Reese shared in an ESPN interview ahead of the league’s All-Star Game. “It was difficult for me at first. After winning the national championship, my life altered dramatically. It was the first time I’d encountered such negativity on social media. I thought I had a decent following before, but then it skyrocketed into millions.”
“Even though I’ve developed a thick skin that doesn’t really bother me, that doesn’t mean everyone can handle it the same way.”
Reese faces considerable criticism, but she considers her fellow WNBA players to be like “sisters” who truly care about her well-being.
After LSU captured the national title in 2023, she quickly became a household name, fostering a rivalry with Iowa’s rising star, Caitlin Clark, which continues at a professional level.
“These players are really close to me,” Reese remarked to ESPN. “Last year, I wasn’t as connected. While in Phoenix, I was pretty quiet during the 2024 All-Star Game and hardly spoke to anyone. What I value about this league is the sense of sisterhood. Here, I know I can find someone who genuinely cares about me and foster a community.”
Drafted seventh overall by the Sky in 2024, Reese is now participating in her second consecutive All-Star Game this year, having averaged 14.0 points and 12.6 rebounds over her first 21 games.
