💣 REEBOK PULLS THE PLUG ON ANGEL REESE 💔 — MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR DEAL CRASHES AFTER “DISASTROUS” SEASON
In a stunning and unexpected move, Reebok has officially terminated its multi-million dollar endorsement deal with WNBA star Angel Reese, sending shockwaves through both the sports and fashion worlds. The decision — confirmed by multiple industry sources late Friday night — marks a dramatic end to what was once hailed as Reebok’s bold return to basketball marketing.
According to insiders close to the situation, the brand’s executives grew increasingly frustrated over the past several months as Reese’s season with the Chicago Sky spiraled into controversy, inconsistent performances, and online backlash. “This was supposed to be the start of a new era for Reebok,” one source told Front Office Sports. “Instead, it turned into a brand alignment nightmare.”
The deal, signed less than a year ago, had made Reese one of the faces of Reebok’s new basketball campaign — personally endorsed by Shaquille O’Neal, who had recently taken on a major role with the company’s athletic division. Her debut commercial, titled “Unapologetically Me,” was celebrated for its bold message of empowerment and individuality. But as the season unfolded, that confidence turned into controversy.
From viral on-court clashes to increasingly polarizing social media posts, Reese’s image — once seen as refreshing and fearless — began to divide fans. Sources within Reebok’s marketing department say internal discussions about “reputation risk” started as early as midseason, when several public incidents involving Reese and rival players dominated headlines more than her game.
Statistically, her season didn’t help the situation either. While Reese remained one of the WNBA’s most visible stars, her field goal percentage dropped sharply, and critics questioned her commitment to team play. “She’s got star power, no question,” another insider said, “but when the numbers and headlines don’t match the message, brands start to worry.”
By September, the relationship between Reese’s management team and Reebok executives had reportedly become strained. One marketing director described it as “creative differences that turned into a complete breakdown.” Despite attempts to salvage the campaign through limited-edition apparel and a rebranding push, internal reports show the partnership “failed to deliver expected engagement or revenue benchmarks.”
Reebok’s official statement, released early Saturday morning, was brief but pointed:
“We remain proud of our collaboration with Angel Reese and wish her the best in her ongoing career. However, following internal reviews, we’ve mutually agreed to part ways.”
Behind the corporate diplomacy, however, industry analysts say this is a major setback for both sides. For Reebok, the deal was intended to reignite its presence in basketball culture after years of dormancy. For Reese, it was supposed to mark her arrival as one of the most marketable young athletes in women’s sports — a crossover icon blending fashion, influence, and competitive spirit.
Social media has erupted since the news broke, with fans fiercely debating whether Reebok’s move was justified or premature. Some argue the company “abandoned a cultural trailblazer,” while others say the breakup reflects “the cost of arrogance and poor performance.”
As for Angel Reese, she has yet to make an official statement — but sources say she’s already been approached by at least two major sportswear competitors, hinting that her brand appeal, while shaken, is far from over.
One marketing analyst summed it up bluntly:
“Reebok wanted a revolution. They got one — just not the kind they expected.”
And as the dust settles on one of the most shocking endorsement collapses in recent sports memory, one thing is clear: the Angel Reese brand may have taken a hit, but in today’s media-driven world, controversy can be both the problem — and the product…
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