EXCLUSIVE: Angel Reese Says She Never Needed Reebok After Being Fired — Fans React in Shock
In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the sports and fashion worlds, WNBA star Angel Reese has publicly declared that she “never needed Reebok” in the first place — just days after the brand reportedly ended its endorsement deal with her. The bombshell admission, laced with defiance and pride, has ignited a firestorm of reactions online, from unwavering support to outright disbelief.
The controversy began earlier this month when multiple outlets confirmed that Reebok had cut ties with Reese, citing “creative differences” and what insiders described as a “misalignment of values and long-term vision.” For many, the news was surprising; Reese had only inked her Reebok deal last year amid much fanfare, promoted as one of the bold new faces of the company’s attempt to revitalize its basketball line.
But the 22-year-old Chicago Sky forward, known to fans as the “Bayou Barbie,” wasted no time responding. Speaking during a candid livestream on Sunday evening, Reese told fans that she wasn’t shaken by Reebok’s decision.
“I didn’t need Reebok then, and I don’t need Reebok now,” she declared. “I am Angel Reese. My brand is bigger than any shoe company that thinks they can define me. If they want to walk away, let them. I’ll still shine.”
A Star With a Voice
Reese, who has built a reputation not only as a fierce competitor on the court but also as an unapologetic cultural figure, has long insisted that her success goes beyond endorsements. Since being drafted in 2024, she has cultivated a strong following, becoming a symbol of confidence, fashion-forward flair, and unfiltered honesty.
The now-defunct Reebok partnership was supposed to be one of her biggest corporate platforms. Promos featured her in flashy photo shoots and bold ad campaigns that celebrated individuality and rebellion. But behind the scenes, insiders say tension quickly brewed.
One source close to the negotiations revealed: “Reebok wanted a certain level of control over her public image — toning down her boldness, shaping her into something more ‘brand safe.’ That’s not Angel. She was never going to compromise who she is.”
Social Media Eruption
News of the split and Reese’s fiery response lit up social media almost instantly.
On X (formerly Twitter), fans divided into passionate camps:
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Supporters praised her independence:
“Angel Reese doesn’t need Reebok. Reebok needed Angel Reese,” one viral post read. -
Others expressed disappointment:
“This could have been her biggest stage yet. Walking away like this feels like a loss.”
Instagram fan pages flooded with edits of Reese in Reebok gear juxtaposed with captions like “Bigger Than the Brand” and “Unbothered Queen.” TikTok creators, meanwhile, dissected every line of her livestream, debating whether this was a savvy power move or a missed opportunity.
Industry Backlash?
Sports marketing experts are weighing in as well. Some warn that Reese may risk alienating future corporate sponsors by speaking so defiantly.
“Brands like consistency,” said Karen Phillips, a marketing consultant with over a decade of experience in athlete partnerships. “When an athlete goes public with statements like this, some companies may hesitate. But on the other hand, this could make her even more appealing to brands that value authenticity and bold voices.”
Already, speculation has begun about where Reese might land next. Nike, Puma, and Under Armour have all been floated as potential suitors, though none have confirmed interest. Given her rising profile in the WNBA — both on the court and in pop culture — few believe she’ll stay without a sneaker deal for long.
A Pattern of Resilience
For Reese’s supporters, the drama is simply another chapter in her ongoing story of resilience. From leading LSU to a national championship to silencing critics who questioned her attitude and flair, she has consistently turned challenges into defining moments.
Her dismissal of Reebok, they argue, is less about burning bridges and more about proving she cannot be boxed in.
“This is what Angel has always been about,” one longtime fan tweeted. “She doesn’t beg for respect — she demands it. And if a brand doesn’t see her worth, she’ll remind them she’s the brand herself.”
What Comes Next?
Reese has hinted that she is already exploring new opportunities. During the livestream, she teased “big things on the horizon” and told fans to stay tuned.
While she declined to drop specific names, her confident tone suggests that she may already be in talks with another company — perhaps one that better aligns with her outspoken personality and unapologetic style.
For now, she seems focused on her WNBA season, where she continues to post impressive numbers and establish herself as one of the league’s brightest young stars. And if her comments are any indication, her career will not be defined by a single sponsorship deal.
“Reebok fired me? Fine. They didn’t make me who I am. I made me who I am. And I promise you — this is just the beginning.”
Conclusion
Whether you see Angel Reese’s remarks as a bold declaration of independence or a risky public relations gamble, one thing is certain: she has once again captured the spotlight.
Her story is no longer just about basketball or sneakers. It’s about an athlete reshaping the power dynamic between players and brands, refusing to let corporate contracts dictate her identity.
And in that sense, perhaps she’s right: she doesn’t need Reebok. She never did.
