Here’s a bold statement: Angel Reese is redefining what it means to be a WNBA star—both on and off the court. While her basketball skills are undeniable, it’s her savvy business moves that are turning heads and sparking conversations. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is the WNBA doing enough to compensate players like Reese, whose influence extends far beyond the game? Let’s dive in.
Angel Reese isn’t just dominating the WNBA; she’s building an empire. Since joining the league two years ago, she’s been laser-focused on growing her brand and creating wealth. From fashion ventures to launching her own foundation, Reese is a force to be reckoned with. Her latest move? Investing in Topicals, a skincare brand that’s anything but ordinary. And this is the part most people miss: Topicals isn’t just another beauty company—it’s a black-led brand dedicated to treating textured skin and chronic conditions. Reese’s involvement didn’t just boost its valuation; it helped secure a whopping $22.6 million in funding. This isn’t just a business deal; it’s a statement about representation and impact.
The real game-changer here is the potential ripple effect of that $22.6 million. It’s not just about skincare; it’s about empowering a brand that aligns with Reese’s values and amplifies underrepresented voices. This move underscores her commitment to using her platform for meaningful change—something that’s becoming a hallmark of her career.
Reese’s financial portfolio is as impressive as her on-court stats. With an estimated net worth of $9.4 million, the majority of her wealth comes from endorsements and business ventures. She’s a brand ambassador for heavyweights like Reebok, McDonald’s, and Victoria’s Secret, even strutting down the runway at Victoria’s Secret’s iconic fashion show last year. She also owns a stake in DC Power FC, a soccer team in Washington, D.C. But here’s the kicker: Her WNBA salary pales in comparison. In 2025, she earned just $74k, with a projected increase to $82k in 2026. With the current WNBA lockout and players demanding fairer compensation, it’s hard not to wonder: Are stars like Reese being undervalued by the league?
Consider this: Reese’s off-court impact—from her investments to her advocacy—is reshaping the narrative of what a WNBA player can achieve. If her business ventures are any indication, she’s not just playing the game; she’s changing it. But here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Should the WNBA reevaluate its compensation structure to reflect the full value players like Reese bring to the league? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
About the author:
Somin Bhattacharjee, Basketball Editor at TheSportsRush, discovered his passion for the sport during the 2014 FIBA World Cup. A die-hard Golden State Warriors fan since the early days of the Stephen Curry era, Somin has penned over 3,000 articles since 2021, covering everything from breaking news to in-depth analysis. Beyond basketball, he’s a sports enthusiast who plays soccer and cheers for Real Madrid. With a bachelor’s degree in marketing, Somin has found his true calling in storytelling, capturing the emotional highs and lows that make basketball more than just a game.
