Angel Reese Hints at Possible WNBL Game in Australia

Angel Reese, the 23-year-old Chicago Sky guard and two-time WNBA All-Star, suggested the possibility of making a one-off appearance in the Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) in Australia. During her visit to Melbourne on Friday to launch her new Reebok shoe, the Angel Reese 1 in Rose Dust, she expressed interest in playing a game or two down under.

Rising Interest of WNBA Stars in the WNBL Circuit

The WNBL has attracted several prominent WNBA players in recent years, with imports such as Jackie Young, Marina Mabrey, Jordin Canada, and Aari McDonald participating in the league over the past five seasons. Currently, Chinese star Han Xu represents Perth in the WNBL and has plans to return to the United States league after a previous run with the New York Liberty.

“Maybe, maybe one day,” Reese stated when asked about her potential WNBL cameo.

I do like Australia so maybe I’ll come out here to play one game or two.

Respect for Australia’s Defensive Culture Rooted in Reese’s College Experience

Reese first encountered Australian basketball culture during her college career at LSU, where she won an NCAA title alongside Aussie point guard Last-Tear Poar. This experience helped her appreciate the Australian emphasis on tough, disciplined defense.

Legendary Australian players such as Michele Timms, Sandy Brondello, Lauren Jackson, and Penny Taylor have been well-regarded for their defensive prowess on both international and WNBA stages.

Reese praised the Australian style, saying, “You guys are great defenders.”

She recalled her college teammate, Last-Tear Poar, as a defensive force:

My favourite defensive teammate is Last-Tear, she is literally risk it all. I remember one time she got a charge, hit her head on the ground but she risked it all for the team. It gives me chills now talking about it as we won a national championship together.

Knowing (Aussies) always have your back, they’re competitors and great people.

Angel Reese’s Ambitions Beyond Basketball

Beyond her basketball career, Reese has developed a strong public profile, including launching her own signature shoe, walking in Victoria’s Secret runway shows, starring in the upcoming second season of The Hunting Wives, and leading a charity aimed at promoting equity and opportunities for women and girls. Nevertheless, basketball remains her central passion.

Her future goals include winning a WNBA championship and representing the United States as an Olympian in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, following her silver medal performance at the 2023 FIBA AmeriCup.

I have so many (basketball goals). Overall, I want to leave my impact in the right way and hopefully leave the game better than when I came in,

Reese expressed.

Reebok and WNBL’s New Partnership Highlights Player Support

Coinciding with Reese’s visit, Reebok and the WNBL announced a new collaboration, introducing the Start Her Season Right initiative. This program is designed to equip WNBL players with gear as they embark on their professional basketball careers, enhancing support for emerging talent within the league.