Angel Reese just added a major trophy to her growing list of accolades — she was officially named Sports Woman of the Year, a title that celebrates not only athletic excellence, but cultural impact and influence. But in true Angel Reese fashion, the moment that should’ve been purely celebratory was met with both applause and backlash.

Crowned for Her Impact

Let’s be clear: Reese’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. From her dominant run with LSU, leading them to a national championship, to her high-profile entry into the WNBA with the Chicago Sky, Angel Reese has become a household name. She’s a double-double machine, a relentless rebounder, and a fierce competitor.

Off the court, she’s leveraged her platform to speak out on women’s sports, NIL rights, and race — gaining brand deals, media appearances, and a devoted fanbase in the process. Love her or not, Angel Reese has moved the needle for women’s basketball. That’s exactly what Sports Woman of the Year is supposed to recognize.

Clowned for the Controversy

But the internet never lets a crown sit straight for long.

Critics were quick to mock the decision, pointing to Reese’s rookie struggles in the WNBA — inconsistent shooting, turnover issues, and the Chicago Sky’s rocky start. Social media erupted with sarcastic memes and “she didn’t deserve it” hot takes, calling her a “PR pick” rather than a performance-based winner.

Some argued that more “polished” or statistically dominant players like A’ja Wilson, Caitlin Clark, or Breanna Stewart were more deserving.

But here’s the truth: the award isn’t just about points per game — it’s about influence, visibility, and cultural relevance. And in that category, few athletes have matched what Angel Reese brought to the table this past year.

The Double Standard Is Loud

It’s hard to ignore the double standards at play. Many of the same traits for which Reese is criticized — confidence, swagger, trash talk — are celebrated in male athletes. Why is it that when she embraces her identity and uses her voice, she’s “problematic,” but when others do it, they’re called “marketable” and “competitive”?

The backlash says more about the critics than it does about Angel Reese.

She’s Still Just Getting Started

Whether you think she earned it or not, Angel Reese is here to stay. She’s still developing her game, adjusting to the WNBA, and continuing to build a brand that transcends basketball. Winning Sports Woman of the Year at this early stage of her pro career is a sign of her power — not just as an athlete, but as a symbol of where women’s sports are headed.

Crowned and clowned — but not stopped. Angel Reese continues to dominate the headlines, and that alone proves why she’s one of the most important figures in sports today.