Reebok Rethinking Angel Reese Partnership After Live TV Embarrassment During Mystics Defeat?

Angel Reese’s rookie season in the WNBA was supposed to be a victory lap—on the court and in the world of endorsements. But after a blowout loss to the Washington Mystics, a string of public missteps, and viral criticism, questions are swirling about whether her biggest sponsor, Reebok, is rethinking its high-profile partnership with the Chicago Sky forward.

The Game That Sparked a Firestorm

The trouble began during a nationally televised game between the Chicago Sky and the Washington Mystics. The Sky suffered a lopsided 103-86 defeat, with Reese at the center of the storm. Despite her stat line—22 points and 13 rebounds—her performance was marred by missed layups, defensive lapses, and a now-infamous blooper where she clanked an open layup off the underside of the backboard. Even the commentators couldn’t help but laugh, quickly catching themselves on air.

Social media erupted. Clips of Reese’s mistakes went viral, with fans and critics alike questioning her readiness for the spotlight. The lowlight reel overshadowed her double-double, and the narrative quickly shifted from her individual stats to her team’s collapse and her role in it.

Humiliation Beyond the Scoreboard

What made the night even more difficult for Reese was the public nature of her struggles. Mystics rookie Shakira Austin scored over Reese and hit her with the “too small” taunt on live TV—a gesture that instantly became the game’s defining image. The Mystics’ rookie duo of Sonia Citron (28 points) and Kiki Iriafen (22 points, 10 rebounds) made history, outplaying the Sky’s supposed veteran presence in the paint.

While Reese’s double-double streak continued, critics called it “stat-padding,” arguing that her individual numbers were meaningless in the face of repeated team losses. The Sky’s record dropped to 7-19, dead last in playoff contention, and fans began to question the leadership and chemistry on the team—pointing directly at Reese’s on-court and off-court persona.

The Reebok Question: Is the Brand Pulling Back?

Reebok’s partnership with Angel Reese was meant to signal the brand’s return to basketball relevance. With her confidence, style, and social media presence, Reese seemed like the perfect face for Reebok’s comeback campaign. The “Angel Reese Collection” launched with fanfare, betting on her dominance and cultural relevance.

But now, with her games being mocked online, her leadership in question, and her public image shifting from “dominant” to “controversial,” insiders suggest Reebok may be quietly reconsidering her role as their centerpiece. In the world of sports marketing, image is everything. Reese was supposed to be Reebok’s answer to the Caitlin Clark phenomenon—a disruptive, game-changing talent who could sell sneakers and shift culture. Instead, her name is increasingly linked to losing streaks, ego, and viral missteps.

The Caitlin Clark Contrast

Adding fuel to the fire is the contrast with Caitlin Clark, Reese’s main rival. Both entered the WNBA with massive hype, but Clark has delivered: breaking records, selling out arenas, and leading her team to wins. While Clark’s leadership is quiet and effective, Reese’s is seen as brash and sometimes unearned, especially as her team continues to struggle.

The comparison is not lost on fans or brands. Clark’s steady ascent makes Reese’s stumbles look even worse, and in the branding world, perception matters as much as performance.

Fan Backlash and Media Scrutiny

The backlash hasn’t been limited to social media. WNBA legend Candace Parker posted a cryptic “eyes” emoji after the game—interpreted by many as subtle shade. Reese’s recent media appearances, full of bravado and self-comparison to league greats, are now seen as premature. For a growing segment of the fanbase, the “Reese Show” is more distraction than substance.

Every week seems to bring a new viral fail or controversial soundbite, and patience is wearing thin. Fans want wins, not just headlines. For Reese, the risk is becoming more “brand” than baller—a dangerous trajectory for any athlete, especially one still finding her footing in the league.

What’s Next for Angel Reese?

The pressure is mounting. If Reese wants to solidify her place as a true face of the league—and keep her sponsors happy—she’ll need to pivot quickly. That means focusing less on media moments and more on elevating her game, her team, and her leadership.

Reebok, for its part, is watching closely. In sports marketing, the window for redemption can close quickly. If the losses and viral moments continue, Reese’s brand momentum could stall before it truly begins.

Conclusion:

Angel Reese’s journey is far from over, but the stakes have never been higher. Her next moves—on and off the court—will determine whether she can silence the doubters, win back the narrative, and prove she’s not just a brand, but a baller worthy of the spotlight.