Angel Reese compares herself to A’ja Wilson and her Nike deal – “she’s just like me, aiming for influence”

Angel Reese, the rising star of college basketball and one of the most marketable athletes in the sport, has drawn comparisons between herself and WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, particularly in light of Wilson’s groundbreaking deal with Nike for her own signature shoe line. Reese, who has secured numerous brand partnerships herself, sees parallels in their shared ambitions to expand their influence beyond the court.

Wilson, a dominant force in the WNBA, recently announced her collaboration with Nike to release her first signature shoe, the “Nike A’One,” set to launch in 2025. This move marks a significant milestone in Wilson’s career, making her one of the few female athletes to achieve such recognition. Reese, who has quickly become a household name thanks to her exceptional performances and vibrant personality, relates to Wilson’s journey and sees her own trajectory following a similar path.

“She’s just like me, aiming for influence,” Reese remarked when asked about Wilson’s Nike deal. “A’ja has paved the way for athletes like myself to not just excel in our sport but to also make our mark in the business world. We’re both focused on using our platforms to inspire and create opportunities for the next generation.”

Reese, who has already secured major endorsement deals with brands like Coach, Amazon, and Outback Steakhouse, understands the power of branding and influence. Her partnerships are a testament to her marketability and her ability to connect with fans beyond just basketball. Much like Wilson, Reese is leveraging her athletic prowess to build a brand that resonates with a broad audience.

Both athletes represent a new era in women’s sports, where influence and impact are as crucial as on-court success. Wilson’s Nike deal is not just about a signature shoe; it’s about shaping the future of women’s basketball and setting a precedent for how female athletes can assert their presence in a market traditionally dominated by their male counterparts. Reese is following in those footsteps, eager to carve out her niche and expand her reach.

“Seeing A’ja succeed with Nike motivates me to keep pushing boundaries,” Reese added. “We’re more than just athletes—we’re trendsetters, influencers, and businesswomen. I’m excited to see where we can take this, not just for ourselves, but for all the young girls looking up to us.”

As Reese continues to build her brand and navigate her burgeoning career, the comparisons to Wilson are likely to grow. Both athletes are proving that their influence extends far beyond the court, and their efforts are helping to redefine what it means to be a female athlete in today’s world. Whether it’s through signature shoes, endorsement deals, or community initiatives, Reese and Wilson are leading the charge, showing that the future of women’s sports is not just about winning games—it’s about making a lasting impact.