Angel Reese had little to celebrate on the court following the Chicago Sky’s 79-52 defeat to the Indiana Fever. The rookie forward managed just four points on 2-of-7 shooting in a game where her team struggled from start to finish.
But while the scoreboard told one story, Reese‘s real win came hours later when she turned her attention to someone far more uplifting-her “son,” Tiago.
In a heartfelt Instagram story, Reese posted an image of Tiago perched atop her Louis Vuitton bag with the caption: “You’re so big now @tiago.king mommy loves you!”
The message was a nod to the second birthday of her Yorkshire Terrier, who has become a central part of her life since she first adopted him during her time at LSU.
For those unfamiliar with Reese‘s off-court life, Tiago King Reese isn’t just a dog. He’s her “baby,” complete with his own Instagram presence and even a custom LSU jersey. Reese first introduced Tiago to the world back in 2023 while she was dating fellow basketball player Cam’Ron Fletcher. Though the couple parted ways in early 2024, Tiago remained by Reese‘s side.
Tiago offers grounding support as Reese navigates early WNBA challenges
In fact, Tiago has been with her through career highs and personal changes, providing consistency in a world that’s anything but. Last year, she called him her “first baby” in a post celebrating his first birthday. Now two years old, Tiago continues to be a symbol of emotional support as Reese navigates the ups and downs of her WNBA rookie season.
The Sky‘s start to the year hasn’t been easy. The team lost its veteran floor leader, Courtney Vandersloot, to injury, and Reese has felt the void on and off the court.
After the blowout loss to Indiana, Reese posted a simple message: “Love you 22,” in tribute to Vandersloot, a quiet acknowledgment of her absence and the weight Reese has felt trying to carry more responsibility.
But amid the team’s early-season struggles and public scrutiny, Tiago has remained a joyful constant. Reese has shared numerous moments with her pup, including a viral video of him happily bouncing across her designer bag and stories of her singing to him before games. He’s become more than a pet-he’s her reminder to stay grounded.
While the wins may not be coming easily for Chicago right now, Reese is drawing strength from the small, meaningful moments. For her, Tiago’s birthday wasn’t just about celebrating a pet. It was a pause, a breath, and a moment of perspective.
In the chaos of a demanding rookie campaign, that wagging tail and familiar bark are a signal that even when things are tough, there’s still love, loyalty, and a reason to keep smiling.
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