Angel Reese needs little introduction. Representing Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, the basketball powerhouse shines as one of the most extraordinary figures in college athletics. Hailing from a long line of basketball players at the college level, including her mother and brother, Reese has emerged as a genuine leader whose positive point of view, infectious energy, and tireless work ethic can set her teammates’ spirits ablaze.
Even in the face of adversity and criticism, Reese remains unapologetically herself, advocating for authenticity and self-expression. Her impressive list of achievements, including the 2023 Final Four Most Outstanding Player and BET Sportswoman of the Year, attests to her on-court excellence. This year she played a pivotal role in securing LSU’s championship victory, etching an unforgettable chapter in her storied career.
As one of Glamour’s 2023 College Women of the Year, Reese sat down with the legendary Lisa Leslie, a basketball icon in her own right, for an open conversation about the future of the game, of course, but also how players can make a meaningful mark beyond the court.
Lisa Leslie: Congratulations, Angel! What an outstanding award. What were your initial thoughts and feelings upon learning that you had been selected as one of Glamour’s College Women of the Year?
Angel Reese: I was so excited! I mean, when you consider all those who’ve received this honor before me, it’s just a surreal feeling to know I’m now seen as one of the top college athletes. This past year has been nothing short of amazing, and I’m truly thankful to LSU for welcoming me and providing such incredible opportunities. Winning a national championship has been the icing on the cake, and I feel incredibly fortunate.
We were chatting earlier, and I know you used to run track. Can you share a bit about your childhood? Were you always involved in sports, or did you discover your love for them later?
I was active in sports from a young age. I started playing basketball when I was four, and my mom introduced me to various other activities. In high school I also dabbled in volleyball and even took up track alongside my involvement in softball. So it’s been a bit of a journey, but basketball has always held a special place in my heart.
Did you always have a clear aspiration to achieve what you’ve accomplished in basketball and play college ball?
No, I just wanted to play basketball and have fun and enjoy the game. I didn’t know I would have such a voice as I do now and be an inspiration to others. I always just wanted to play basketball, pursue my education, and strive to achieve my dreams, which include making it to the NBA. I never envisioned I’d be at the status that I am at right now.
Would you say that last year was one of those defining moments in your career thus far?
Absolutely. I remember my freshman year, when I had high expectations but ended up breaking my foot, sidelining me for 15 games. I faced another setback when, eight months later, I needed surgery and had a rod placed in my leg. That period was incredibly challenging for me as a 17-year-old freshman and shook my confidence. Dealing with such a significant injury was tough and marked my first major setback. However, I managed to bounce back in my sophomore year and performed well. Eventually I transferred, and I believe that was the turning point. Making it onto the USA team felt like everything coming full circle for me this year.
Let’s discuss that challenging period. I understand how injuries can breed self-doubt and impact mental health. How did you manage to navigate through it and come out stronger? Do you have any advice or tools you’d recommend to young athletes who may find themselves in similar situations?
That was my lowest point, for sure. I felt lost, not knowing anything beyond waking up daily, going to rehab, and watching others play. Journaling became a lifeline for me and something I picked up freshman year. And I leaned on prayer, reading a verse every day to keep me going. Luckily, I was just a 30- to 40-minute drive away from home while I was in Maryland, so having my mom and supportive family visit occasionally was a great comfort. My coaches at Maryland were also incredibly understanding and supportive, as were my teammates.
Who would you say is your biggest supporter on your whole journey?
My mom. She’s been my rock, my everything. I remember our early days when she was a single mom, raising me and my brother, who’s just 11 months younger than me. My biggest goal was to secure a full college scholarship so she wouldn’t have to worry about the expenses. Achieving that and seeing both her kids pursue their passions and get a debt-free college education has been incredibly fulfilling. I’ll graduate this year, and my brother will follow next year as he continues his education. Seeing everything she’s done as an independent Black woman has always inspiring.
How do you balance your identity as a student-athlete with the demands of fame and knowing you are a woman and a human who needs your own space and time?
It’s been challenging, to be honest. I had a meeting with my coach recently, and one of my life goals is to make time for myself, to simply breathe and have fun while staying focused on my priorities. When I’m on the basketball court, it’s all about business, total focus on the game. At school I’m dedicated to my academics. But when I’m home, that’s my downtime. I indulge in self-care, like getting my nails done, getting massages, and getting my hair done—it’s therapeutic for me. While I can’t really move around how I want to move like before, I try to make the most of the time I have, whether it’s hanging out with my teammates or enjoying some personal time.
Basketball season’s here, and you’re back in school, gearing up with your team. What songs get you pumped up?
When it’s game time, it’s all about Flau’jae. Whether we’re at LSU or hitting the court with my team, Flau’jae’s on repeat. [Editor’s note: The rapper Flau’jae Johnson plays guard for LSU.] We’re big supporters of everything she does. Her story and dedication, balancing studio work, school, and basketball, is truly inspiring. We make sure to play her music to show our support and help spread her passion.
Let’s dive into that. The sisterhood among you and your teammates and the camaraderie you share can be quite complex for outsiders to grasp. What’s your approach to building these strong bonds among women and empowering each other?
It’s definitely hard. Everyone comes from diverse backgrounds and has different lives outside of the team. I didn’t have sisters growing up, so my freshman year in college was my first time being around many different women with varying personalities, backgrounds, and styles. Initially it was tough for me to adjust to being around girls every day. However, as I’ve taken on leadership roles and become a captain, I’ve learned how to connect with each teammate personally. It’s actually quite enjoyable now. We have each other’s backs, communicate regularly, and provide unwavering support. I truly love them—these girls will be in my life forever.
I’ve always admired embracing my femininity as a female player, and of course, I’ve faced criticism for it at times. Now, seeing you confidently embrace your authentic self and being celebrated, I feel like a proud mentor. Tell me about your feelings in this space, especially now that you have a significant spotlight on you in terms of balancing beauty and basketball.
People often expect me to constantly showcase basketball on my Instagram and think it’s my entire life. They may assume that if I’m not posting about being in the gym, I’m not working on my game, or if I’m not sharing modeling pictures, I’m not pursuing that. Balancing it can be tough. But my social media is my personal space, a reflection of what brings me joy and what I want to share. It’s about what I like. I understand that many people pay attention to my social media, and it can be challenging to embrace this duality fully.
I mean, you’ve always led the way in embracing femininity in the league and in college as well, and I want to continue that legacy. You’ve shown that you can be both girly and fiercely competitive on the court. Knowing that strong women like you and others before us have paved the way, I’m determined to carry that torch forward.
What are your top two or three beauty tips or must-have products?
I always have my lashes in the locker room, and in case they get knocked off, my lash glue and an edge control brush. I always have my edges done. So it’s all about edges, lip gloss, and lashes. That’s my go-to routine.
Now, let’s give a shout-out to LSU. How has your increased fame impacted your campus life? It seems like your level of recognition has made it challenging to move around freely.
LSU has been incredibly supportive. While I do take an in-person class because I enjoy being on campus and seeing everyone, the rest of my classes are online, which provides flexibility. When I first joined LSU, I had around 70,000 followers, and now I have over 2 million. They truly embrace you here and go beyond recognizing you as an athlete.
LSU has a program called NIL LSU, which assists athletes in embracing the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) concept and helps us build our personal brands. Our coaches understand that we’re not just athletes on the court but individuals with lives off the court. They prioritize our success both on and off the court. The LSU community has been exceptionally amazing to me, and it’s why I’ve been affectionately named Bayou Barbie. Baton Rouge has been an incredible place for me.
What are your basketball goals for the upcoming year and beyond?
This is my senior year, and I have the opportunity to declare for the WNBA this year if I choose to. So my main focus is being a positive leader for my team, especially with new players joining us. I want to inspire and support my teammates, especially the freshmen and transfers who are adapting to our system.
Our ultimate goal is to win another national championship, but personally, I aspire to make it to the WNBA. While I do have the option for another year, I do want to get out of college, start life outside of school, and pursue my WNBA dreams. It’s been a challenging but rewarding four years, and I’m excited to continue improving at LSU and beyond.
