In a move that has sent shockwaves through the sports industry, coveted WNBA star Angel Reese has opted to sign a multi-year endorsement deal with Reebok, turning down offers from industry giants like Nike.
Reese’s decision to join Reebok marks a significant shift in the landscape of athlete endorsements, as she becomes the face of the brand’s basketball division.
Addressing her decision in a now-viral video shared on social media platform X by @dadeasskickz, Reese revealed her rationale behind choosing Reebok over other lucrative offers.
“I wanted to be a priority ’cause I could have signed easily with Nike,” Reese explained. “But like everybody doing that. I don’t like doing what everybody do. I like to do the complete opposite. I’m bringing Reebok back.”
For people with insights in the industry, Reese’s move to Reebok signifies more than just a brand partnership; it represents a strategic alignment between the rising basketball star.
It has been described as a smart move by a company poised for resurgence in the competitive sportswear market.
As the first major Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal for Reebok, Reese’s signing has already sparked anticipation for her own signature shoe, set to hit the market in the near future.
Speaking about her decision, Reese explained the unique opportunities afforded to her by Reebok, including the chance to shape her own brand and product line.
“One, they didn’t have a woman, a women’s basketball player, a face. So I wanted to do that,” Reese shared. “Two, Shaq, you know, my relationship with Shaq, and three, I like how they were rebranding everything, and they’re like letting me be the creator behind like everything I want to do.”
Reese’s partnership with Reebok cements her status as one of the most sought-after athletes in the WNBA and also reflects her commitment to paving new paths and leaving a lasting impact both on and off the court.
