Congratulations are in order: LSU women’s basketball icon Angel Reese has been named one of the 100 most influential figures in sports by TIME magazine. This prestigious recognition marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her legacy as not just a standout athlete but a transformative force in the world of sports.

Congratulations are in order: LSU women’s basketball icon Angel Reese has been named one of the 100 most influential people in sports by TIME magazine, a moment that not only honors her athletic excellence but also underscores the powerful cultural impact she continues to have both on and off the court. This milestone is more than just a nod to her basketball achievements—it is a celebration of a young woman who has risen through the ranks with an unshakeable sense of self, bold confidence, and unwavering commitment to being a voice for change.

Angel Reese’s journey has been anything but ordinary. From her early days growing up in Randallstown, Maryland, where her love for the game was nurtured, to becoming a national sensation at LSU, Reese has always played with a fire that sets her apart. Her path to stardom has been paved with grit, determination, and a deep belief in her ability to shape her own narrative. Now, with her inclusion in the TIME 100 list, that narrative has reached new heights, placing her in the company of global trailblazers and visionaries.

Reese first made national headlines during the 2022–2023 NCAA women’s basketball season, when she led the LSU Tigers to their first-ever national championship. Her performance throughout the season was dominant, showcasing her versatility as a player—averaging a double-double nearly every game and providing an indomitable presence on both ends of the floor. But it wasn’t just her statistics that captivated fans; it was her swagger, her unapologetic confidence, and her fearless embrace of the spotlight. She didn’t just play the game—she owned it.

One of the defining moments of her rise came during the NCAA tournament, particularly the championship game against Iowa. Her on-court gestures, particularly the now-famous “you can’t see me” taunt toward Iowa star Caitlin Clark, sparked a firestorm of media coverage and public debate. While some critics questioned her sportsmanship, supporters—especially within the Black community—rallied behind her as a symbol of empowerment, expression, and resilience. That moment wasn’t just about a basketball game; it was about what it means to be young, Black, and bold in a world that often demands silence over authenticity.

Angel Reese didn’t back down. She leaned in.

Instead of trying to appease critics, Reese used her growing platform to amplify issues she cares about, from gender equity in sports to representation for women of color. Her voice became one of advocacy as much as athleticism. She has spoken out about double standards in how male and female athletes are treated, how Black women are often scrutinized more harshly than their peers, and how athletes should be allowed to express themselves fully—without having to dilute who they are for public acceptance.

Her influence extends well beyond the hardwood. Reese has become a major figure in the name, image, and likeness (NIL) space, turning her popularity into a powerful personal brand. She has inked major endorsement deals, appeared in national ad campaigns, graced magazine covers, and collaborated with fashion and beauty brands. In doing so, she has redefined what it means to be a student-athlete in the modern era—showing that success in sports and success in business can go hand in hand.

Perhaps what makes Angel Reese truly influential is not just her talent or her accolades, but her authenticity. She has remained true to herself in every step of her journey, refusing to conform to outdated standards of how female athletes should behave. She wears lashes on the court. She embraces fashion off it. She speaks her mind. She challenges the status quo. And in doing so, she has become a beacon for a new generation of athletes who see in her a role model they can actually relate to.

Reese’s inclusion in TIME’s prestigious list is a recognition of all of this—a nod to her athletic dominance, yes, but also to her cultural impact, her willingness to challenge norms, and her dedication to using her platform for more than just personal gain. She is part of a broader movement that is changing the face of women’s sports, helping to elevate it to new levels of visibility, respect, and commercial viability.

This recognition also places her among a rare group of college athletes who have managed to transcend their sport while still competing. Many athletes gain cultural influence after years in the pros, but Angel Reese has done it before even graduating college. That speaks volumes about the moment we are in—a moment where athletes are no longer just performers, but influencers, entrepreneurs, and activists.

And let’s not forget that Angel Reese’s story is still being written. She continues to develop her game, lead her team, and inspire fans around the world. Her dedication to growth is as evident as ever. Even after winning a national championship and becoming a media sensation, she has never settled. Her focus remains sharp, and her hunger for greatness hasn’t diminished. That relentless drive is what makes her not just a star of today, but a legend in the making.

Her influence is also deeply felt in the LSU community and beyond. She has become a symbol of pride for the university, a draw for fans and recruits alike, and an ambassador for women’s basketball in the South. Her popularity has brought unprecedented attention to the LSU program, boosting ticket sales, TV ratings, and national interest in the team. In a landscape where women’s sports still fight for equal coverage, Reese has helped shift the balance.

And let’s not overlook the importance of representation. Angel Reese, a young Black woman from Baltimore, now stands as one of the most influential figures in all of sports. That matters. To young girls watching her highlights on Instagram or tuning in to watch LSU games on ESPN, she is proof that dreams are valid. That being loud, proud, and unafraid is not a weakness—but a superpower.

As she continues to grow her brand and expand her reach, the question isn’t whether Angel Reese will remain influential—it’s how far she’ll go. With aspirations that include modeling, broadcasting, and community leadership, her career could take many forms in the years ahead. But whatever path she chooses, one thing is clear: she’s not just shaping her own future; she’s reshaping the future of sports.

Her voice, her presence, and her story are helping redefine the landscape of collegiate athletics. She’s making it clear that athletes can be multi-dimensional, that women’s sports are marketable and powerful, and that Black women deserve the space to shine without apology. That’s not just influence. That’s legacy.

In a time when the sports world is undergoing massive transformation—driven by social movements, technological advances, and generational shifts—Angel Reese stands at the epicenter of change. Her name on the TIME 100 list is a powerful signal to the industry that the future belongs to those who are unafraid to be themselves and unrelenting in their pursuit of greatness.

So yes, congratulations are more than deserved. Angel Reese didn’t just make the list—she made a statement. And it’s one the sports world won’t forget anytime soon.