“I Was Pregnant, All These Crazy Things”: Angel Reese Opens Up About Her WNBA Rookie Hiatus

In a candid and emotional interview, Angel Reese, one of basketball’s most electrifying stars, opened up about the surprising and deeply personal reasons behind her unexpected hiatus during her rookie season in the WNBA. The revelation not only sheds light on the challenges she faced but also underscores her remarkable resilience and determination to succeed on and off the court.

A Promising Start Delayed

Angel Reese entered the WNBA with sky-high expectations after a stellar collegiate career that saw her dominate the court and capture national attention. Dubbed a game-changer for her skill, energy, and charisma, Reese was expected to make an immediate impact in the league. However, fans and analysts were left puzzled when her rookie season didn’t go as planned. Instead of making headlines for her on-court performances, Reese became the subject of speculation about her mysterious absence.

“I know people were wondering,” Reese said during her interview. “There were so many stories out there, but I needed time to deal with something very personal and very life-changing.”

The Shocking Revelation: Reese’s absence was due to her discovery that she was pregnant. The news, which she described as both shocking and overwhelming, came at a critical juncture in her life and career.

“I found out right before the season started,” Reese revealed. “It was one of those moments where your entire world shifts in an instant. I was excited about starting my WNBA career, but then I had to take a step back and figure out what this meant for me, for my dreams, and for my future.”

The revelation added a layer of complexity to Reese’s journey, as she grappled with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy while navigating the pressures of being a young professional athlete.

Balancing Motherhood and Basketball

For Reese, the decision to prioritize her health and well-being was not an easy one. As a fiercely competitive athlete, stepping away from the game she loves was a tough pill to swallow. Yet, she knew it was necessary.

“Basketball has always been my sanctuary, but I had to think about more than just myself,” she said. “I wanted to ensure that I was in the best place physically and mentally to take on both motherhood and my career.”

Reese’s journey was not without its challenges. She faced moments of self-doubt and fear, wondering how her absence might affect her standing in the league and her long-term career prospects. However, she also found strength in the support of her family, friends, and a tight-knit circle of mentors who encouraged her to take things one step at a time.

The Public Speculation

During her time away, Reese’s absence fueled rampant speculation. Social media buzzed with rumors about potential injuries, contract disputes, and even burnout. Reese admitted that staying silent while facing such scrutiny was difficult, but she knew she wasn’t ready to share her story publicly.

“I’d see people talking about me online, and it hurt sometimes,” she confessed. “But I knew that I needed to wait until I was ready—until I could share my truth on my own terms.”

Her eventual decision to open up about her pregnancy was driven by a desire to inspire and empower others who might be facing similar challenges.

Returning Stronger Than Ever

Now, Reese is preparing for a triumphant return to the WNBA. With the support of her loved ones and a renewed sense of purpose, she’s eager to get back to the game and prove that motherhood has only made her stronger.

“I’m more motivated than ever,” Reese said. “Becoming a mom has given me a new perspective on life and on basketball. I want to show my child what it means to chase your dreams, no matter what obstacles come your way.”

Reese has already begun training and is working closely with her team to ensure a seamless return. She’s also using her platform to advocate for better support systems for female athletes who face similar life changes.

“There’s a stigma around pregnancy and professional sports,” Reese noted. “But it’s time we change that narrative. Women can be incredible athletes and amazing mothers at the same time.”

A Broader Conversation About Women in Sports

Reese’s story is part of a larger conversation about the challenges and opportunities faced by women in sports. While male athletes rarely face questions about balancing family life and career, female athletes often encounter added scrutiny and pressure.

“It’s not just about me,” Reese said. “This is about creating a world where women in sports feel supported, no matter what life throws at them.”

Her openness has already resonated with fans and fellow athletes alike. Many have praised Reese for her courage and vulnerability, seeing her story as a source of inspiration.

Looking Ahead

As Reese prepares to step back onto the court, she’s not just focused on basketball—she’s also committed to using her platform to advocate for change. She hopes her story will encourage leagues, teams, and organizations to provide more resources and support for female athletes navigating pregnancy and motherhood.

“We need to normalize these conversations,” she said. “Pregnancy doesn’t mean the end of your career. It’s just a new chapter, and it can be just as fulfilling and successful.”

For Reese, this new chapter is all about redefining what it means to be a professional athlete. She’s determined to prove that motherhood and a thriving basketball career can coexist, and she’s ready to inspire others to do the same.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s journey is a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering passion for basketball. Her decision to share her story marks a pivotal moment not just in her career but in the broader narrative surrounding women in sports.

As she prepares to return to the WNBA, Reese is poised to make an even greater impact—not just as a player, but as a trailblazer who’s breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of female athletes. Her story is a powerful reminder that challenges can be transformative, and that with determination and support, it’s possible to rise above any obstacle.