What many thought was impossible has become a reality. Angel Reese, rookie forward for the Chicago Sky, delivered one of the most impactful moments in recent WNBA All-Star Game history. With a staggering total of 506,741 votes, the young star joined the league’s elite and became a fan favorite.
Reese not only became one of just eight players this year to surpass the half-million vote mark, but she also proved that her influence extends far beyond the court. While Caitlin Clark led the overall voting with 1.29 million votes, Reese’s meteoric rise was one of the biggest surprises of the season.
Reese received overwhelming fan support
Despite the massive backing from fans, Angel Reese encountered an unexpected hurdle: media and player voting. Both groups ranked her 12th among frontcourt players, a steep drop from her 5th-place finish in the fan vote-just behind stars like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Aliyah Boston.
Reese’s weighted average was 7.75, the same as Kiki Iriafen, which ultimately kept her out of the All-Star starting lineup. The response on social media was swift and heated.
Reese’s fans erupt on social media
On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans didn’t hold back their frustration. “Angel Reese should be among the top 5 bigs; I’d place her right behind Boston, Collier, and Wilson-and I’m usually one of her critics,” one user posted.
Another comment went viral for its bluntness: “Angel Reese will never be MVP. Not because she doesn’t deserve it, but because they won’t give her the votes. Even when it’s obvious she should get it.” Criticism was aimed at both the voting system and alleged bias within the league.
Still, her All-Star spot looks secure
While she won’t be a starter, Angel Reese is widely expected to be named an All-Star reserve-a significant achievement for a rookie. Her energy, rising stats, and growing charisma both on and off the court continue to cement her status as one of the WNBA’s emerging faces.
The question now is: when will the rest of the WNBA ecosystem recognize what the fans already see? The Reese phenomenon is just beginning, and her story is poised to define a new era.
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