Angel Reese’s Warned of $5 Billion Industry’s Downside as She Revisits Career-Deciding Gamble

Angel Reese, the dynamic Chicago Sky guard, has rapidly ascended in the basketball world. Her prowess isn’t just limited to the court; she’s equally celebrated for her strategic off-court decisions. As the 22-year-old Maryland native has admitted, the WNBA doesn’t “pay her bills,” with her expenses primarily covered by lucrative endorsement deals. However, securing those deals hasn’t been a straightforward journey.

In a recent episode of her podcast, Unapologetically Angel, Chi-Town Barbie joined forces with her long-time manager, Jeanine Ogbonnaya, to discuss several topics about her agency.

via Imago

During the conversation, they ended up recalling a crucial moment in Reese’s career when her NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) valuation was a mere $1.8 million. Jeanine began by addressing the complications of representation, saying, “Yeah. so, like, I don’t think a lot of people at bigger agencies—they have so many clients—I don’t think they’re as in tune with what’s going on, even down to approving hair and makeup artists.”

The two were referring to a pivotal moment in 2022, following Reese’s national championship victory. Despite numerous prominent agencies vying for her attention, Reese remained loyal to Ogbonnaya of the Clearview Group. Her insistence on retaining Jeanine, despite the allure of larger agencies, was a testament to her commitment to personalized and attentive management.

“I remember telling agencies, like, I’m telling y’all right now, if y’all not letting Jeanine in on this, like it’s dead,” Reese shared, reflecting on this period. That decision paved the way for her to secure endorsement deals with top brands like Topps, Airbnb, Tampax, Beats by Dre, and Reebok, collectively elevating her net worth to an estimated $2 million.

Notably, her collaboration with Reebok, facilitated by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, includes a signature shoe line set for release in 2026. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for the 22-year-old as she navigates murky waters.

While the NIL industry offers substantial earning potential, it also presents challenges requiring astute navigation. Reese’s journey has not been without hurdles. Early in her career, she had an unfavorable experience with a former agent who underestimated her market value. The WNBA star has repeatedly shared how she was told she wouldn’t make significant earnings—a notion she has since disproven through her strategic partnerships and collaborations.

Among her standout deals is her partnership with Reese’s.

“I’ve been trying to get this deal for 4 YEARS! Without an agency, all I have is a FIRE INDEPENDENT MANAGER/AGENT that always stood on business about me since day one! I appreciate the fan support but @JeanineJuliano DID THIS! Anyway, we MOVE! HAPPY REESE’S PIECES DAYYY,” Reese shared in a statement on X.

This milestone marked the first time a WNBA player secured an endorsement deal with the iconic candy company.

Reese’s path reflects a blend of talent, determination, and strategic acumen. Her story is a testament to the value of trusting the right people and making bold decisions in a competitive industry. What do you think about her impressive journey?