Angel Reese: Building a Sports Empire

Move over, basketball court – Angel Reese is conquering the business world! At just 24 years old, the WNBA star is proving to be one of the most formidable and business-savvy young talents in women’s sports. She’s not just playing the game; she’s strategically building a legacy of long-term wealth and influence.

From NIL Star to Business Mogul

You might know her as the “Bayou Barbie” or the athlete who sparks countless conversations, but Angel Reese is much more than her on-court performance. She’s been candid about understanding the financial realities of professional sports and has proactively secured her future. Before even stepping onto a WNBA court, Reese had already amassed an impressive $1.8 million NIL portfolio during her time at LSU.

Her deals spanned major brands like Goldman Sachs, Beats by Dre, Airbnb, and Amazon. And since being drafted by the Chicago Sky and later traded to the Atlanta Dream, her business ventures have only expanded, creating a portfolio that many seasoned athletes twice her age would envy.

Investing in the Future of Sports

Reese’s business acumen extends beyond individual endorsements. In May 2024, she made history by becoming a founding investor in DC Power FC, a women’s soccer club in the USL Super League. As a Maryland native, this move was both strategic and deeply personal, aiming to grow women’s sports in her home region.

Furthermore, in 2025, she joined the ownership group of TOGETHXR, a media and commerce company co-founded by fellow sports icons Alex Morgan, Sue Bird, Simone Manuel, and Chloe Kim. This move places her alongside some of the most influential women in sports, signaling a clear vision for her legacy.

The Sell-Out Sneaker and Sweet Deals

Her signature Reebok AR1 sneaker launch in September 2025 was a monumental success. All three colorways sold out within hours, making her the fastest player in two decades to achieve a signature shoe and the first WNBA player with a Reebok deal since 1997. The demand was so high that Reebok quickly expanded the line to kids’ sizes.

Even a playful social media moment turned into a lucrative partnership. Reese’s fans affectionately call themselves “Reese’s Pieces,” a nickname that prompted a response from the candy brand Hershey’s. This led to a licensed apparel collection, demonstrating Reese’s ability to leverage her cultural influence into tangible business opportunities.

Strategic Brand Building

Reese’s success isn’t accidental. She’s been incredibly selective with her partnerships, thanks in large part to her agent, Jeanine Ogbonnaya. They’ve reportedly turned down more deals than they’ve accepted, ensuring that every brand collaboration authentically reflects Reese’s values and image. This strategic approach has resulted in a diverse and powerful portfolio that feels genuinely hers.

At just 24, Angel Reese is already a force in the business world, with ownership stakes, a sold-out signature shoe, and over 20 brand deals. She’s not just playing for the love of the game; she’s playing to win in every arena.