In a year where she has already shattered WNBA rebounding records and walked the runway as the first professional athlete “Angel” for Victoria’s Secret, Angel Reese has added another prestigious title to her resume. Bleacher Report has officially named the Chicago Sky star as one of the most influential and beautiful figures in sports for 2025, sparking a global wave of praise that transcends the basketball court.
The recognition is more than a nod to her aesthetic; it is a celebration of the “Angel Reese Effect”—a unique blend of elite athletic dominance, high-fashion crossover, and an unapologetic personality that has redefined what it means to be a modern female athlete.
A Year of Unprecedented Visibility
Reese’s 2025 has been a masterclass in branding and beauty. While many athletes struggle to bridge the gap between the stadium and the runway, Reese has made the transition look effortless. This year alone, she has:
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Graced the Cover of Vogue: Featured in the “When Sports Met Fashion” Winter 2025 issue.
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Made Runway History: Became the first pro athlete to earn “wings” at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, an event that drew over 12 million viewers.
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Dominated the “Tunnel Walk”: Turned every arena entrance into a viral fashion moment, proving that her “Bayou Barbie” roots were just the beginning.
The “Pretty Gritty” Response
Responding to the acclaim, Reese remained true to the duality of her brand—what she and her partners at Reebok call “Pretty Gritty.” On social media, she shared that the recognition is a win for every girl who was told they had to choose between being “strong” and being “feminine.”
“I’ve always said you can be a beast on the boards and a beauty off the court,” Reese shared with her 5 million+ followers. “To be recognized for my confidence and my style is a dream. I’m doing this for the little girls who want to wear lashes and grab 20 rebounds in the same game.”
Why the Internet is Buzzing
The massive reaction to Bleacher Report’s announcement stems from the cultural shift Reese represents. For decades, female athletes were often pressured to fit a specific, toned-down mold to be considered marketable. Reese has flipped that script by:
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Embracing Authenticity: She refuses to “soften” her competitive edge or her glamor.
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Expanding the Audience: Her social media reach—the highest in the WNBA—has brought fashion enthusiasts and beauty fans into the world of basketball.
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Challenging Stereotypes: She has proven that being a “fashion girlie” doesn’t detract from being a “workaholic” in the gym.
A Legacy Beyond the Box Score
While critics often focus on her shooting percentages, the “Most Beautiful” title reinforces that Reese’s value to the league is multi-dimensional. She is a commercial titan who has turned the WNBA into a lifestyle brand.
As she heads into the 2026 season, this latest accolade cements her status as a cultural leader. Whether she’s at a New York Knicks game courtside with Paige Bueckers or fighting for a playoff spot in Chicago, Angel Reese is proving that the most beautiful thing about her game is her refusal to be boxed in.
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