Angel Reese, the dynamic basketball star, has been at the center of conversations this offseason — though surprisingly, little of it involves her performance on the court. With a wrist injury sidelining her from basketball action, the narrative around Reese has taken a different direction, with her off-court activities and public statements fueling a mix of admiration, critique, and social media buzz.

Offseason Spotlight: From Podcasts to Fashion

Reese has kept herself in the spotlight through various public appearances, social media posts, and podcast episodes, the most notable of which was her interview with influencer Kayla Nicole. That episode stirred controversy, particularly when it ventured into pop culture and even drew the ire of Taylor Swift fans, the “Swifties.” While her injury has kept her from showing her growth on the court, Reese has taken full advantage of her fame and influence off it, positioning herself as a cultural and fashion figure.

Recently, she set social media ablaze with a tweet saying, “I thought the brand was cheapened… cry about it.” This appeared to be a direct response to ongoing criticisms, specifically those surrounding her image and style choices. Some detractors, including rapper Joe Budden, have weighed in on the discourse, suggesting that Reese should follow a more traditional path — like her college basketball rival Caitlin Clark — in how she presents herself publicly.

The “Living Beyond My Means” Controversy

One of Reese’s most viral moments came from a clip circulating online where she joked about her WNBA salary. Laughing off the idea that her league paycheck couldn’t even cover her rent, she quipped, “I’m living beyond my means… my rent is 8K, and my WNBA salary doesn’t even cover it.” While this was likely meant as a tongue-in-cheek comment, it stirred a firestorm online. Many interpreted it as an admission that her celebrity status and endorsement deals far outweigh what she earns as a professional basketball player.

To some, Reese’s remarks seemed tone-deaf, especially considering that many of her WNBA peers rely solely on the league’s salary to make ends meet. The minimum salary in the WNBA, around $74,000, is paltry compared to what male athletes make in other leagues. For Reese, however, it’s her lucrative endorsement deals — from partnerships like Reebok and Reese’s — that make her financial situation vastly different from most other players in the league.

The Backlash: Fans Divided

Reese’s candidness has created a divide among fans. On one hand, some admire her hustle and ability to capitalize on her fame. Her appearances at high-profile events, like the Victoria’s Secret fashion show and other celebrity-packed gatherings, have solidified her as more than just a basketball player; she’s a cultural icon.

But on the other hand, critics argue that her focus has shifted too far from basketball. The perception, particularly following her offseason, is that Reese is prioritizing her brand over her performance on the court. This concern is particularly pressing given the competitive nature of the WNBA, where elite talent continues to emerge, and Reese’s position as one of the league’s rising stars could be jeopardized if she doesn’t keep her basketball skills sharp.

“Hating Pays the Bills”: The Reality of Celebrity in Sports

Reese’s rise to stardom has come with its fair share of detractors. But she’s embraced it, often repeating her mantra, “hating pays the bills.” It’s a savvy acknowledgment of the reality of modern fame, where controversy often fuels attention, and attention fuels financial success. Reese’s ability to stay relevant — for better or worse — keeps her in the public eye and ensures her brand continues to grow.

However, the question remains: how long can this strategy work? While “hating pays” might be a temporary boon, it risks overshadowing her basketball career if she’s not careful. Fans and critics alike wonder if Reese will continue to balance her fame off the court with her potential to be one of the WNBA’s best players.

The Long-Term Play: Basketball vs. Branding

The big question looming over Reese’s future is whether she will fully capitalize on her basketball talent or shift her focus to the more lucrative world of celebrity and endorsements. With her injury healing, she’ll have to decide whether to double down on basketball or explore new avenues outside the sport.

In a league where players like Breanna Stewart are taking calculated steps to maximize future financial gain with short-term contracts, Reese is at a crossroads. Her path could lead her to become one of the WNBA’s biggest stars — both on and off the court — or see her transition into the entertainment world full-time.

One thing’s for sure: as long as Angel Reese keeps talking and playing, the world will keep watching. Whether they love or hate her, she’s determined to stay in the conversation.

What do you think of Angel Reese’s offseason choices? Will her off-court fame hurt her on-court career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!