NBA Legend Shaquille O’Neal Says Angel Reese Is the ‘Face of What’s Next’

“Angel represents everything this new era of Reebok basketball is about — power, confidence, and impact on and off the court,” O’Neal said, according to The Athletic. “She’s a competitor, a leader, and she’s unapologetically herself."

On Oct. 17, 2023, Reese officially inked her multiyear NIL partnership, becoming the first major signing under O’Neal’s new administration. But the decision wasn't made in a vacuum. Before signing, Reese insisted on a comprehensive vetting of the Reebok headquarters, meeting with everyone from CEO Todd Krinsky to the heads of product and community initiatives.

“I chose Reebok. ... I wanted to be that [face],” Reese said of her desire to lead a brand relaunch rather than simply joining a crowded roster.

Working alongside teams led by Portia Blunt, the vice president of apparel and product, Reese helped develop the roadmap for her "Angel’s Picks" curated portal and a future signature shoe line. Krinsky, a 30-year veteran of the brand, said Reese was Reebok's "top pick" because her swagger aligned perfectly with the company's mission.

Following the release of the "Reebok by Angel" collection in August 2024, Reese signed a signature shoe contract extension just two months later.

By Friday, that dream became a physical reality. The "Angel Reese 1" debuted in three distinct colorways. The response from the community has been overwhelming; every major release reportedly sold out within 24 hours of hitting the digital marketplace, according to CBS Sports.

For those watching her rise, the message is clear: dream big, because you never know where that "unapologetic swagger" might take you. As O'Neal puts it, Reese has that rare star power that defines the future. “She’s the face of what’s next.”