Angel Reese becomes the first-ever major NIL partner of Reebok

American college basketball star Angel Reese has recently secured a lucrative endorsement agreement with Reebok, a prominent multinational company specializing in footwear and athletic apparel.

In its recent announcement, Reebok revealed that it has enlisted the services of the Tigers’ star forward as a partner as she embarks on her inaugural season, following her remarkable role in leading LSU Tigers women’s basketball team to a national victory last spring. The welcomed announcement is part of Reebok’s long-term strategy to regain its prominent position as a dominant force in the sports realm.

With this groundbreaking deal, Reese assumes the distinction of being Reebok’s inaugural major NIL signing, marking a significant milestone for both parties. This partnership also represents the first collaboration under the esteemed leadership of Shaquille O’Neal, the newly appointed President of Basketball. Angel Reese joins the roster of esteemed brand partners, including NFL quarterback Justin Fields, basketball legend Allen Iverson, and many others.

In an interview featured on the company’s website, Reese expressed that the collaboration was influenced by Shaquille O’Neal.

“Now that he’s just been announced as their President of Basketball, that is inspirational to me, just being able to see an athlete or former athlete shift from not just being an athlete, but being the president of the brand is something that’s important,” Reese said. “I would love to do that one day.”

 “It feels great, Shaq is so much fun! I love him, and he’s been super supportive to me and everything I’ve done. Even if I didn’t work with Reebok he’d still support me, and our relationship has always been amazing. Everything is just so much fun, and what player wouldn’t want feedback from one of the best bigs of all time!?” she added.

Although the terms of the deal were not revealed, Angel Reese will showcase her preferred Reebok footwear and athletic clothing as part of the agreement.

 “I don’t like wearing heels. I like wearing tennis shoes. Reebok has cute tennis shoes I love to wear so that’s great for me!” said Reese.

Reacting to the new partnership, fellow Tiger and basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal said, “for my first appointment in this role, it had to be the GOAT. There is no one making a bigger impact on the game right now than Angel Reese. Angel is shaking up the space, just like Reebok has done all along. I’m proud to welcome Angel into the Reebok family and can’t wait to see how she will bring the brand’s legacy to the next generation.”

Reese will feature in various campaigns for both lifestyle and performance products. Additionally, she will collaborate with the product teams of Reebok to impact future designs and advancements, including her collection scheduled to debut in FW24. Reebok has also committed to assisting Reese in her philanthropic pursuits, which includes her newly established Angel C. Reese Foundation, dedicated to empowering females through sports, education, financial literacy, and other means.

Reacting to the game-changing partnership, Reebok CEO Todd Krinsky commented, “Angel has this unique mix of unapologetic swagger and style combined with off-the-charts athleticism. Her individuality and personal irreverence are helping transform college sports and inspiring an entire generation. We’re thrilled to be working with Angel and look forward to further imprinting our presence on sports culture together.”

Born on May 6, 2002, Reese has enjoyed tremendous success in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I. Last spring, she was nicknamed the ‘Bayou Barbie,’ played a pivotal role in elevating women’s college basketball to new heights. High moments of her career in 2023 include NCAA champion (2023), NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player (2023), Unanimous first-team All-American (2023), First-team All-American – AP, USBWA (2023), WBCA Coaches’ All-American (2023), First-team All-SEC (2023), and SEC All-Defensive Team (2023).