Angel Reese continues to make waves in the WNBA, emerging as one of the league’s rising stars and a central figure in Reebok’s identity. Her influence drew high praise from NBA legend Allen Iverson, who saw the Chicago Sky star as a reflection of his once-revolutionary persona.

Iverson, now a vice president at Reebok Basketball, was notably behind Reebok’s success throughout his career, thanks to his unique demeanor.

In a recent interview with People’s Natasha Dye, the former NBA MVP explained why Angel Reese resonates strongly with him.

“I love everything about her,” Iverson said. “I love what she stands for. She reminds me of my little sister. She’s dope to me. She reminds me of myself hoop-wise and on a personal level, too.”

Iverson and Reebok president Shaquille O’Neal helped propel Reebok into the industry after being overshadowed by shoe lines like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour. The company had not signed any major basketball names in years until Angel Reese joined through a NIL deal back at LSU.

Angel Reese, who re-signed with Reebok on a multi-year contract, is set to launch her own signature shoe later this year, marking the brand’s first signature release for a basketball star for several years.

While Reese continues to face heavy criticism for her on-court performance, she remains a star figure off the court. She has secured high-profile endorsement deals with brands such as McDonald’s and Reese’s. With her signature shoe releasing soon, Reebok sees a renewed opportunity to re-enter the basketball market in a meaningful way.

Philadelphia 76ers: Gilbert Arenas Makes 1 CRAZY Claim Involving Beloved Sixers Legend 3 Philadelphia 76ers guard Allen Iverson. Credit: Getty Images

Like Iverson’s, Reese’s unique style marks a generational change in leading faces, especially in the growing women’s basketball industry.

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal has publicly defended Angel Reese as the Chicago Sky forward continues to face criticism in her WNBA career.

Reese, a former LSU standout like O’Neal, has been under intense scrutiny, particularly due to her on-court rivalry with Caitlin Clark. Despite the noise, O’Neal praised Reese’s skill, resilience, and star potential.

“She’s as good and even better than some of the people that y’all are kissing up to,” O’Neal told Sports Illustrated. “But y’all don’t know it. But she knows it.”

He also urged her to ignore online criticism and focus on improving her game.

“Don’t be looking at those comments. They don’t really have a voice—they just think they do.”’

Mar 3, 2024; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Lady Tigers forward Angel Reese takes a photo for senior night with former LSU player and NBA champion Shaquille O’Neal, LSU Lady Tigers head coach Kim Mulkey, and Reese’s mother Angel Webb against the Kentucky Wildcats at Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-USA TODAY Sports

Angel Reese is currently averaging 10.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. Despite her strong performance, the Sky remains near the bottom of the standings with a rough start to the season.