WNBA rising star Angel Reese stepped up when Texas needed it most. Following the devastating floods that swept through the Lone Star State in June, Reese launched a bold and heartfelt initiative that raised $1.5 million in just under three weeks — proving once again that true leadership shines brightest in times of crisis.

A State in Crisis

After days of torrential rain, severe flooding inundated much of eastern and central Texas, leaving thousands without homes, displacing entire communities, and overwhelming local infrastructure. The images of submerged neighborhoods, stranded families, and overwhelmed shelters captured national attention — and sparked immediate action from Reese.

“I couldn’t just sit and watch people lose everything,” Reese said in an emotional social media post on June 10. “Texas showed me love every time I played there. Now it’s time to give it back.”

Turning Compassion into Action

Reese, known for her fearless style on the court and powerful presence off it, quickly partnered with Athletes for Humanity and several Texas-based nonprofits to launch the Stronger Together Relief Fund. Her campaign prioritized fast access to food, shelter, and emergency medical care for those hit hardest — particularly underserved communities.

The fundraising effort was grassroots at its core, but fueled by Reese’s massive following and authentic appeal. From Instagram Lives with flood victims to behind-the-scenes footage of her visiting shelters, Reese made the cause deeply personal — and America responded.

A Community-Driven Effort

In just a matter of days, donations poured in from fans, fellow athletes, and corporate partners. Reese hosted a charity basketball clinic in Houston that attracted hundreds of young athletes, raising over $300,000 through sponsorships, ticket sales, and matching gifts. She also teamed up with local artists and musicians for a benefit concert in Dallas, with proceeds going directly to flood victims.

Notably, Reese contributed $100,000 of her own endorsement earnings to jumpstart the campaign — a move that inspired many others to follow suit.

“Angel didn’t just write a check,” said Rosa Hernández, director of the Houston Relief Coalition. “She showed up, listened, and acted with purpose. That made all the difference.”

National Recognition and Lasting Impact

As the campaign surpassed the $1.5 million mark by early July, Reese’s efforts drew praise from civic leaders and fellow athletes alike. President Biden called her actions “a shining example of American generosity and leadership,” while WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert said Reese had “raised the bar for what it means to be a role model.”

The funds raised have already gone to work: temporary housing programs in Beaumont and Houston, food distribution centers in rural areas, and mobile health clinics serving flood-affected zones are just a few of the initiatives supported by Reese’s campaign.

More Than an Athlete

Angel Reese has never shied away from using her platform for causes she believes in — from racial justice to women’s empowerment. But this latest chapter in her journey has elevated her from athlete to advocate, showing millions what empathy in action can achieve.

“This wasn’t about going viral,” Reese said during a July 4 press conference. “This was about being human, and doing what’s right.”

A Movement That Inspired the Nation

In a summer marked by heartbreak and hardship, Angel Reese reminded the nation that hope often comes from unexpected places — like the determination of a young woman who decided that compassion wasn’t just a feeling, but a call to act.

And as floodwaters recede and Texans begin to rebuild, her message continues to resonate across the country: we are always stronger together.