Angel Reese, the 22-year-old Chicago Sky power forward, is making waves ahead of the launch of her first signature sneaker with Reebok. Known for her boldness, Reese recently stirred controversy by comparing her debut shoe, the “Angel Reese 1s,” to Michael Jordan’s iconic Air Jordans.
In an interview with Elle, Reese expressed her hopes that her sneaker would become more than just basketball footwear. “I want people to wear the Angel Reese 1s everywhere and just to be a household name,” she said. “Just like how they wear Jordans everywhere.” This direct comparison to Jordan’s legendary line sparked intense debate online.
Michael Jordan didn’t just revolutionize basketball shoes; his brand reshaped street culture and fashion, generating billions and maintaining popularity decades after his retirement. Stories of theft and violence over Air Jordans during their peak years highlight their massive cultural impact, emphasizing the ambitious standard Reese set for herself.
Social media users quickly reacted to Reese’s comments. Some dismissed her claim, telling her to “stop playing” or “please stop,” while others praised the design and expressed excitement about the shoe’s upcoming release. The Reese 1s, coming in multiple colors, including pink, have been well received aesthetically.
Reebok has built anticipation, sharing teasers of Reese wearing the sneakers. Instagram fans left positive comments, even revealing the launch date as September 18, fueling excitement.
Despite the praise, some critics accused Reese of overhyping herself early in her career. A comment on X even suggested she should “shut up and hoop,” illustrating the harsher scrutiny women athletes often face when showing confidence.
Regardless of mixed opinions, Reese’s signature sneaker marks an important milestone for the WNBA, where few female players have released their own lines. Like Jordan, Reese will wear her sneakers in games, providing a platform to boost their popularity.
Whether the Angel Reese 1s reach Jordan-level fame isn’t clear yet, but Reese’s ambition reflects a new generation unafraid to chase large dreams. Beyond basketball, she’s crafting a brand meant to extend her influence far beyond the court. As the September release nears, all eyes will be on Reese and her bold vision for the future of sneakers.
