In the modern sports landscape, influence has become just as critical as athletic performance. Today, influence extends beyond the court or field—it shapes pop culture, drives billion-dollar endorsements, and even sways the direction of entire leagues. And now, a new ranking has sent shockwaves through the sports world: Angel Reese, the 22-year-old WNBA star widely known as the “Bayou Barbie,” has been officially ranked as the #2 most influential figure in sports, trailing only NBA legend LeBron James.
The ranking is both groundbreaking and symbolic. Reese isn’t just making history as one of the youngest athletes ever to earn such recognition; she’s also redefining what it means to be a face of women’s sports in an era where visibility, personality, and cultural impact matter just as much as stats on the scoreboard.
From Baton Rouge to Global Spotlight
Angel Reese’s meteoric rise is a story that blends athletic brilliance, savvy branding, and unapologetic authenticity. Born and raised in Maryland before becoming a household name at LSU, Reese already had a reputation as a fierce competitor and vocal leader by the time she entered the WNBA.
Her breakout moment came during the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. Reese’s LSU Tigers not only captured the national title but also ignited a nationwide conversation about trash talk, swagger, and double standards in women’s sports. Her infamous “You can’t see me” gesture toward Iowa star Caitlin Clark turned her into both a lightning rod for controversy and an icon of empowerment.
That single moment skyrocketed her public profile, with endorsements and media deals flooding in. But Reese didn’t shrink under the glare—she leaned into it, embracing the spotlight while amplifying her voice on issues ranging from gender equality to representation in sports media.
Beyond Basketball: A Cultural Powerhouse
What separates Reese from many athletes isn’t just her talent—it’s her ability to transcend basketball. Like LeBron James, who turned his NBA superstardom into a platform for social commentary, entertainment ventures, and activism, Reese has become a cultural force.
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Fashion and Style: Reese has embraced her “Bayou Barbie” nickname with pride, leveraging it into a fashion-forward identity. She has graced magazine covers, collaborated with top beauty and fashion brands, and built an image that fuses femininity with competitive fire.
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Social Media Mastery: With millions of followers across platforms, Reese engages directly with fans in a way that feels authentic. She’s not afraid to clap back at critics, celebrate her wins, or share glimpses of her personal life. Her relatability fuels her influence.
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Endorsements and Business Moves: Reese’s NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals while at LSU made her one of the highest-earning college athletes ever. Now in the pros, she’s secured partnerships with global giants like Reebok, Amazon, and even Coca-Cola. These aren’t just endorsements—they’re brand alignments that position her as a global ambassador for women’s sports.
The Ranking That Shook the Sports World
The new ranking of the most influential figures in sports, released by Sports Influence Index (SII), placed Reese at #2 overall, with only LeBron James ahead of her. Reese’s inclusion wasn’t just about numbers—it reflected her unmatched impact across multiple sectors:
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On-Court Performance: Her rookie season in the WNBA has already showcased flashes of dominance. Even when sidelined, her presence shapes media narratives and fuels league viewership.
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Cultural Reach: Reese’s moments—whether celebrating with teammates, speaking out against double standards, or posting glamorous off-court looks—consistently trend on social media.
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Marketability: No female athlete since Serena Williams has commanded this level of crossover appeal. Brands don’t just want Reese—they need her.
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Representation and Symbolism: Reese represents a new wave of unapologetic Black female athletes redefining mainstream sports culture. Her influence goes beyond her own achievements—she’s paving the way for others.
Why Angel Reese Ranks Ahead of Other Icons
For many, the most surprising element of the ranking is Reese’s placement above global superstars like Lionel Messi, Patrick Mahomes, or even Caitlin Clark. But the metrics reveal why:
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Demographic Shift: Reese appeals strongly to Gen Z, the demographic most likely to shape cultural and consumer trends in the next decade.
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Media Leverage: Reese is constantly in headlines, whether through her performances, bold comments, or viral moments.
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Dual Impact: She’s simultaneously building women’s basketball while standing as a cultural figure in fashion, music, and entertainment.
Unlike athletes who dominate only in their sport, Reese is building influence across multiple industries. That’s why she’s earned a ranking this high, this fast.
Comparison with LeBron James
LeBron James remains the undisputed king of influence in sports. With a two-decade career, four NBA championships, and a billion-dollar brand empire, he’s not just a player—he’s a movement. He has schools bearing his name, production companies creating Hollywood hits, and a legacy that transcends basketball.
But Reese’s rise alongside LeBron is symbolic of a generational shift. While LeBron embodies the established model of influence—longevity, consistent excellence, and off-court investments—Reese represents the future: digital-first, personality-driven, and intersectional.
The fact that she’s already second to him is less a comparison of achievements and more a recognition that influence in sports is no longer measured solely by trophies.
The WNBA’s Golden Opportunity
For the WNBA, Reese’s ranking is more than personal recognition—it’s a lifeline. The league has long struggled with mainstream visibility and financial growth. While legends like Lisa Leslie, Sue Bird, and Diana Taurasi laid the foundation, Reese (along with Caitlin Clark and others) represents the era where women’s basketball might finally break into true global stardom.
Her influence can:
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Boost TV Ratings: Fans tune in not just to watch her play, but to watch her lead, celebrate, and even trash talk.
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Drive Merch Sales: Her jerseys and fashion collaborations have already sold out repeatedly.
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Attract Sponsors: Major brands are using Reese as a gateway to tap into young, diverse, and socially engaged consumers.
The WNBA has never had this level of cultural leverage before, and it would be a missed opportunity not to capitalize on it.
Critics and Controversies
Of course, influence doesn’t come without critics. Reese has been accused by some of being “too cocky” or “too focused on branding.” Others argue that her ranking over established global icons is premature.
But this criticism misses the point. Influence is not a lifetime achievement award—it’s about current cultural power. And right now, Reese’s power is undeniable.
What’s Next for Angel Reese?
Being ranked as the #2 most influential figure in sports is both a triumph and a challenge. Reese now carries the responsibility of living up to that recognition. But if her track record is any indication, she won’t shy away from the moment.
Her future could include:
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Expanding into Entertainment: Following LeBron’s footsteps into film, TV, or music collaborations.
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Launching Personal Ventures: From fashion lines to philanthropic foundations, her name alone can anchor billion-dollar enterprises.
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Global Expansion: Reese has the charisma and brand appeal to become an international superstar, not just an American one.
Most importantly, Reese is redefining what success looks like for women in sports. She’s proving that being unapologetically yourself can not only win championships but also reshape entire industries.
Conclusion: A New Era of Influence
Angel Reese’s #2 ranking behind LeBron James isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a statement about where sports culture is headed. Influence today is about relatability, authenticity, and the ability to drive conversation across multiple arenas.
LeBron James may still hold the crown, but Angel Reese is the queen-in-waiting, already commanding an empire of her own. And if the trajectory continues, we may soon be talking about a new #1.
Angel Reese isn’t just the face of the WNBA. She’s the face of a movement.