Angel Reese is going through a difficult emotional period, largely due to a combination of intense public scrutiny, the pressure of professional expectations, personal conflicts, and her ongoing mental health journey. The young WNBA star, who plays for the Chicago Sky, has been facing mounting challenges since transitioning from college to professional basketball. Despite her standout performances, including recent double-doubles and an assertive on-court presence, Reese has become increasingly emotional and visibly frustrated, particularly following her team’s recent 85–66 loss to the New York Liberty. The Sky’s overall record has dipped to 2–6, and although Reese continues to contribute solid stats, the team’s struggles have compounded her own emotional burden. Following the loss, she appeared emotional in the postgame press conference, signaling just how much she has been carrying—not only as a basketball player but as a young woman navigating intense public attention.
A significant source of emotional strain for Reese is the relentless criticism she faces in both the media and on social media platforms. Since her rise to national prominence with LSU’s national championship win, she has been subject to a uniquely harsh level of scrutiny, often laced with sexism and racism. This public treatment has continued into her WNBA career, where every move—on and off the court—is analyzed and often weaponized against her. Her confident personality, celebratory style, and unapologetic demeanor have made her a lightning rod for controversy, particularly when compared to her male counterparts or even other female athletes who are treated with more leniency. This double standard has worn heavily on Reese, and her emotions following recent games reflect the psychological toll of being under a constant microscope.
Adding to her emotional challenges is the recent cooling of her friendship with former LSU teammate Flau’Jae Johnson. Once seen as a dynamic duo both on and off the court, their relationship has apparently deteriorated, exacerbated by a public feud between their mothers on social media. Johnson has since stated in interviews that they are no longer friends, although she maintained a tone of mutual respect. Still, for Reese—who built strong personal bonds during her time at LSU—this fallout represents a painful personal loss and contributes to a sense of emotional isolation during what is already a high-pressure time in her life.
Another dimension of her emotional struggle stems from the broader issue of mental health, which Reese has not shied away from addressing. She has been vocal about the need for mental health awareness, especially in sports where athletes are often expected to perform without regard for their emotional well-being. The death of former LSU teammate Kyren Lacy, a tragic and heartbreaking event, has further galvanized Reese’s commitment to mental health advocacy. She has used her platform to urge fans and the media to check in on their loved ones and to recognize that athletes are human beings first. Her message underscores the importance of compassion and understanding, particularly for young athletes navigating fame, pressure, and personal growth in the public eye.
Despite everything she is going through, Reese continues to show resilience. Her teammates, including veterans like Ariel Atkins, have come to her defense, calling out the unfair treatment she receives and highlighting the need to let her simply be a basketball player. Atkins’ comment that “her crown is heavy” is both a tribute to Reese’s strength and an acknowledgment of the emotional weight she carries. While the path ahead remains challenging, Reese’s willingness to confront her struggles, speak openly about mental health, and advocate for herself and others is a testament to her character. Her journey is far from over, but through the turmoil, Angel Reese is emerging not just as a basketball star, but as a powerful voice for emotional honesty and resilience in sports.
