Angel Reese Opens Up About Cyberbullying and WNBA Journey

Angel Reese, the celebrated 2023 national champion from LSU, recently shared her experiences with cyberbullying since entering the spotlight and the professional scene, notably the WNBA. She candidly discussed the challenges she faced after winning the championship and the considerable impact it had on her life.

The Impact of Social Media on Angel Reese

In a revealing interview with ESPN ahead of the league’s All-Star Game, Reese stated:

“I’ve experienced it. It was hard for me in the beginning. After I won the national championship, my whole life changed. That was the first time I had seen negativity like that on social media. I thought I had a huge following before, but it skyrocketed to millions. It was bigger than basketball when they were finding my address and my car. I had to change my whole lifestyle.”

This dramatic shift not only brought accolades but also an influx of scrutiny that led her to reassess her approach to public life.

Building Resilience

Despite the initial shock, Reese explained that she has developed a thicker skin over time. She shared:

“It doesn’t bother me as much anymore just because I feel like I’ve built a thicker skin, but not everybody has a thick skin.”

This sentiment reflects the challenges many public figures face in managing public perception and personal well-being.

Support from Teammates and Peers

Reese emphasized the importance of her relationships within the league. Referring to fellow athletes as her “sisters,” she noted:

“This is the closest I’ve been to these players. Last year, I wasn’t that close. When I was in Phoenix [for the 2024 All-Star Game], I was very quiet. I didn’t talk to anybody. That’s what I really love about this league: being able to have sisters. I don’t have any sisters. Being able to have sisters here who really, really care about me and knowing I can take that and transform that into the community.”

These connections have provided her with a robust support system in an otherwise challenging environment.

Rising Star in the WNBA

Drafted No. 7 overall by the Chicago Sky in 2024, Reese has continued to shine on the court. She made her second consecutive All-Star Game appearance this year, showcasing her skills with an average of 14.0 points and 12.6 rebounds in her first 21 games.

Key Highlights of Angel Reese’s Career:

• Championship Victory: Led LSU to a national title in 2023.
• Social Media Fame: Following her championship win, her social media following exploded to millions.
• All-Star Appearances: Honored as a WNBA All-Star for two consecutive years.

For more insights on the challenges of being a public figure in sports, you can check this article on Cyberbullying in Sports.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s journey from college basketball champion to WNBA star reflects both the glory of athletic achievement and the pressures of public life. Her experiences with cyberbullying and the subsequent growth are a testament to her resilience and strength. As she continues to shine in the WNBA, her story resonates with many who face similar struggles in the age of social media.

For updates and more news about Angel Reese, the WNBA, and other players, follow ESPN for the latest developments.