Reese's Rise: Balancing Act for Young Black Star
Sky's Angel Reese is no stranger to juggling multiple identities, especially as a rising star in the basketball and fashion world. Her recent stint on USA Basketball Women’s National Team training camp has been met with excitement from fans, but also criticism from some quarters.
Reese, a 22-year-old phenom, has built a name for herself as both a dominant force on the court and a sought-after model on the catwalk. She became the first athlete to model in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show this fall, solidifying her status as a trailblazer for young Black women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Yet, with great success comes greater scrutiny. Reese has faced racist undertones and criticism from those who question her authenticity or feel threatened by her rapid ascent. She's not alone; many of the guests on her podcast "Unapologetically Angel" have shared similar experiences, grappling with how to navigate multiple identities while facing skepticism and bias.
Reese acknowledges that she's been called out for modeling in Victoria's Secret, with some questioning why a basketball player should be doing so. However, she believes it's essential to challenge traditional norms and push boundaries.
"I can do anything I put my mind to," Reese says, echoing the sentiments of artist Victoria Monét, who advises others to "layer it if you want to" – to pursue multiple passions without apology or expectation.
Monét's words of wisdom come as Reese continues to forge her path, one that defies conventions and challenges stereotypes. She's not afraid to be vulnerable, sharing her own struggles with online trolls and the pressure to conform.
Reese's openness is part of what makes her podcast so compelling – it's a space for honest conversations, where guests like Monét, artist Wale, and sports journalist Taylor Rooks share their experiences and insights. The discussions are raw, unfiltered, and often uncomfortable, but ultimately rewarding.
As Reese continues to rise through the ranks, she's learning to navigate the complexities of her own identity and the expectations that come with it. She knows that nobody is made of stone, and that criticism can be a double-edged sword.
Reese's determination to succeed, combined with her willingness to listen and learn, will likely lead her down a path of continued growth and empowerment. For now, she remains unapologetically herself – a shining example for young Black women everywhere who are chasing their dreams and refusing to be boxed in.
Sky's Angel Reese is no stranger to juggling multiple identities, especially as a rising star in the basketball and fashion world. Her recent stint on USA Basketball Women’s National Team training camp has been met with excitement from fans, but also criticism from some quarters.
Reese, a 22-year-old phenom, has built a name for herself as both a dominant force on the court and a sought-after model on the catwalk. She became the first athlete to model in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show this fall, solidifying her status as a trailblazer for young Black women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Yet, with great success comes greater scrutiny. Reese has faced racist undertones and criticism from those who question her authenticity or feel threatened by her rapid ascent. She's not alone; many of the guests on her podcast "Unapologetically Angel" have shared similar experiences, grappling with how to navigate multiple identities while facing skepticism and bias.
Reese acknowledges that she's been called out for modeling in Victoria's Secret, with some questioning why a basketball player should be doing so. However, she believes it's essential to challenge traditional norms and push boundaries.
"I can do anything I put my mind to," Reese says, echoing the sentiments of artist Victoria Monét, who advises others to "layer it if you want to" – to pursue multiple passions without apology or expectation.
Monét's words of wisdom come as Reese continues to forge her path, one that defies conventions and challenges stereotypes. She's not afraid to be vulnerable, sharing her own struggles with online trolls and the pressure to conform.
Reese's openness is part of what makes her podcast so compelling – it's a space for honest conversations, where guests like Monét, artist Wale, and sports journalist Taylor Rooks share their experiences and insights. The discussions are raw, unfiltered, and often uncomfortable, but ultimately rewarding.
As Reese continues to rise through the ranks, she's learning to navigate the complexities of her own identity and the expectations that come with it. She knows that nobody is made of stone, and that criticism can be a double-edged sword.
Reese's determination to succeed, combined with her willingness to listen and learn, will likely lead her down a path of continued growth and empowerment. For now, she remains unapologetically herself – a shining example for young Black women everywhere who are chasing their dreams and refusing to be boxed in.
... like people say she's doing what she wants but there's still so much pressure from others... and at the same time, we're like "good job, girl" but also kinda expecting her to fit into certain roles or boxes... it's like, can't we just let ppl be? 
... she's trying to break barriers, but then people are all "oh no, this is too much" instead of being supportive... meanwhile reese's just trying to figure out who she is and what makes her happy... kinda relatable tbh 
meanwhile ppl r still salty about her modeling gigs lol like what's next gonna make them mad? anyway i think its dope that she's creating a space for others to share their stories too "Unapologetically Angel" is giving me all the feels 
. and can we talk about her podcast? it's like a breath of fresh air, all these powerful women sharing their stories & experiences without apology. monét & wale are literally my spirit animals 
taylor rooks is on point too 
. reese is the real MVP (most valuable player) when it comes to empowering young black women everywhere 
gotta respect Reese 4 staying true 2 herself even when the haters come for her 
we don't have to choose between being fierce on the court or serving face on the catwalk, reese is proof that we can do both 
. her podcast is a testament to that - it's not just about sharing her own experiences, but also amplifying those of others who may feel marginalized or silenced 