Angel Reese’s journey from a highly touted high school recruit to one of the most recognizable and influential figures in women’s basketball has been nothing short of remarkable, and her latest honor adds yet another layer to her already storied career. Being named among TIME 100’s Most Influential Figures in Sports is not simply an accolade—it is a resounding acknowledgment of her impact on and off the court, a testament to her trailblazing presence in the world of athletics, and a milestone that further solidifies her legacy as a transformative figure in the sport. Reese’s inclusion on such a prestigious list speaks volumes about her ability to transcend the boundaries of basketball, using her platform to inspire, challenge norms, and redefine what it means to be a successful athlete in today’s era. The recognition cements her place alongside the most respected and dynamic personalities shaping sports culture globally, a fitting reflection of the waves she has been making since her arrival at LSU.
Known affectionately as the “Bayou Barbie,” Reese has become much more than a nickname or a stat sheet superstar. She represents a shift in how women’s basketball is perceived and marketed, blending on-court dominance with cultural influence in a way few athletes manage to achieve. Her confidence is unapologetic, her style is distinct, and her voice is unafraid—qualities that resonate deeply with fans and aspiring athletes alike. Whether she is battling under the boards, knocking down key shots, or addressing important issues publicly, Reese carries herself with a blend of poise and determination that has made her a role model for an entire generation. Her rise to this point has been fueled not only by her physical gifts and relentless work ethic but also by her willingness to embrace the spotlight, advocate for herself, and command respect in an industry where women’s voices have too often been sidelined.
Her time at LSU has been defined by more than just individual accolades. While she has earned All-American honors, set records, and led her team to championships, Reese has also been a central figure in elevating the visibility of the women’s game. The Tigers’ national championship run in 2023, in particular, placed Reese in the national conversation, with her high-energy performances and passionate leadership becoming defining images of that tournament. Her fiery competitiveness was matched by her ability to deliver in clutch moments, and the result was not only a title for LSU but also a massive surge in interest for the program and the sport. Games featuring Reese drew unprecedented media coverage and fan engagement, proving that women’s basketball could command attention on the same scale as its male counterpart when given the platform and promotion it deserves.
Reese’s influence, however, extends far beyond what happens between the lines. She has been an outspoken advocate for the importance of athlete branding and the opportunities created by the new Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era in college sports. By securing high-profile endorsement deals and building her personal brand in a way that remains authentic to who she is, Reese has shown other young athletes—especially women and athletes of color—that it is possible to leverage one’s platform for both financial and personal empowerment without compromising values or passion for the game. In an era where the business side of sports can be as crucial as the competition itself, Reese has emerged as a leading example of how to navigate these waters with intelligence and intentionality.
Her recognition by TIME is also a nod to the cultural moments she has sparked and the conversations she has ignited. From her now-famous hand gesture exchange during the NCAA championship game to her candid interviews about double standards in sports media, Reese has shown that she is not afraid to challenge outdated perceptions. She is willing to address the disparities in coverage, respect, and resources between men’s and women’s sports, and she does so with a clarity that forces both fans and decision-makers to take notice. In doing so, she has helped push forward the broader fight for equality in athletics—a fight that goes well beyond her own career.
What makes Reese’s story even more compelling is that she is still at the beginning of what could be an extraordinary career. Her college accomplishments alone could have secured her place in basketball history, but she is widely expected to excel at the professional level, whether in the WNBA or through opportunities overseas. Regardless of where her playing career takes her, the foundation she has built as a cultural icon ensures her influence will endure. She is already shaping the way future players approach the game, both in terms of skill development and the cultivation of a strong personal brand. Young athletes look to her as proof that they can be multidimensional—dominant on the court while also embracing individuality and standing up for what they believe in.
Reese’s path to this moment has not been without challenges. She has faced scrutiny from critics, the pressures of constant media attention, and the demands of balancing high-level competition with her personal life and responsibilities. Yet she has consistently responded with resilience, turning moments of controversy into platforms for greater dialogue and awareness. Her journey is a reminder that leadership in sports often comes not from perfection, but from authenticity and the courage to navigate obstacles in a way that others can learn from. That resilience is part of what makes her so influential—people connect not only with her victories but also with the way she confronts and overcomes adversity.
As much as she has accomplished already, the TIME 100 honor feels like a midpoint rather than a conclusion. For Reese, this recognition is likely to serve as fuel for even greater ambitions. It validates her past efforts but also challenges her to continue using her voice and position for the benefit of others. With the platform she now commands, Reese has the opportunity to influence not just basketball, but the broader cultural landscape—encouraging equity, inspiring confidence, and showing that greatness is as much about character and impact as it is about statistics and trophies.
In the end, Angel Reese’s inclusion among TIME’s Most Influential Figures in Sports is a celebration of more than her talent—it is an acknowledgment of the powerful role she plays in shaping the future of athletics. She stands as a trailblazer whose influence spans competition, culture, and commerce, and whose legacy will likely inspire countless others to dream bigger, speak louder, and play harder. This is the lasting impact of a true icon, and for Reese, it is only the beginning of what promises to be a career defined not just by how many points she scores or titles she wins, but by the number of lives she touches along the way.
