In a dazzling affirmation of her meteoric rise, LSU women’s basketball sensation Angel Reese has been named one of the 100 most influential people in sports by TIME magazine. This milestone not only cements her reputation as a transformative figure in athletics but also underscores her impact as a cultural icon, entrepreneur, and advocate for change. Known as the “Bayou Barbie,” Reese’s journey from Baltimore to the global stage is a testament to her unrelenting drive, authenticity, and ability to redefine what it means to be a modern athlete.
At just 23 years old, Angel Reese has already left an indelible mark on women’s basketball. Her on-court prowess, characterized by ferocious rebounding, defensive tenacity, and an infectious energy, has made her a household name. During her time at LSU, Reese led the Tigers to a historic 2023 NCAA Championship, earning Most Outstanding Player honors. Her double-double performances—often racking up points and rebounds in jaw-dropping numbers—have redefined expectations for frontcourt players. But it’s not just her stats that make her a standout; it’s her unapologetic presence, from her signature trash-talking to her celebratory gestures, that has sparked conversations about confidence, gender, and race in sports.
Reese’s inclusion in the TIME 100 list is a nod to her influence beyond the hardwood. She has become a beacon for young athletes, particularly women of color, showing them that they can embrace their individuality while excelling at the highest levels. Her response to critics, who once labeled her competitive flair as “unsportsmanlike,” has been to double down on her authenticity. “I’m going to always be me,” Reese famously said, a mantra that resonates with a generation tired of conforming to outdated norms. This boldness has made her a role model, proving that strength and femininity are not mutually exclusive.
Off the court, Reese’s influence is equally undeniable. She has leveraged her platform to become a savvy entrepreneur, securing endorsement deals with brands like Reebok, Coach, and Beats by Dre. Her partnership with Reebok, in particular, marks a significant step in her business ventures, as she became one of the first athletes to sign with the brand under Shaquille O’Neal’s leadership. These deals aren’t just about financial success; they’re about creating opportunities for others. Reese has been vocal about wanting to pave the way for future athletes, ensuring they have a seat at the table in boardrooms and marketing campaigns.
Her advocacy extends to social issues as well. Reese has used her voice to address racial and gender disparities in sports, calling out inequities in media coverage and treatment of female athletes. During the 2023 NCAA Tournament, when her taunting gesture toward an opponent sparked national debate, Reese didn’t shy away. Instead, she confronted the double standards head-on, pointing out how similar actions by male athletes are often celebrated while women are criticized. Her willingness to speak truth to power has made her a lightning rod for discussion, forcing the sports world to reckon with its biases.
Reese’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Growing up in Baltimore, she faced skepticism about her potential, yet she turned doubters into believers through sheer grit. At LSU, she navigated the pressures of being a star in a high-stakes program while maintaining her academic commitments and personal growth. Her transition to the WNBA, where she now plays for the Chicago Sky, has only amplified her influence. Despite the increased scrutiny that comes with professional sports, Reese continues to thrive, balancing her athletic career with her growing media empire.
The TIME 100 recognition places Reese alongside global sports titans, from LeBron James to Simone Biles, but her inclusion feels uniquely significant. It signals a shift in the sports landscape, where influence is no longer measured solely by championships or records but by the ability to inspire change. Reese’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and impact—a reminder that influence is about more than fame; it’s about leaving the game better than you found it.
As Angel Reese continues to break barriers, her TIME 100 honor is not just a milestone but a launching pad. The “Bayou Barbie” is rewriting the playbook for what a female athlete can be: powerful, unapologetic, and undeniably influential. Congratulations, Angel—your legacy is just beginning.
