The basketball world is in shock after Angel Reese, one of the WNBA’s brightest young stars, made a jaw-dropping announcement just days before the start of the 2025 WNBA season. During a live Instagram interview on March 9, Reese revealed that she plans to leave the United States to play in an international basketball league, citing a lack of respect as the primary reason for her departure.
“I’m leaving the United States. There’s no respect here,” Reese stated bluntly during the interview, her voice filled with frustration.
The unexpected declaration immediately went viral, igniting heated debates across social media. Fans, analysts, and fellow athletes are now questioning whether this is a bold career move or an emotional response to the criticism and treatment Reese has faced throughout her WNBA tenure.
But what exactly led to this shocking decision? And what does it mean for Reese’s future and the WNBA?
Angel Reese’s Rise to Stardom – A WNBA Career Cut Short?
Reese has been one of the most talked-about figures in women’s basketball ever since she was drafted by the Chicago Sky. Her rookie season was nothing short of spectacular—quickly establishing herself as a dominant force on the court, particularly in rebounding and inside scoring.
Her confidence, outspoken personality, and fearless playing style made her a fan favorite. However, they also made her a polarizing figure in the sports world. While supporters praised her unapologetic attitude and competitive fire, critics frequently scrutinized her style of play, media presence, and emotional reactions on and off the court.
Throughout the 2024 season, Reese faced an uphill battle, becoming the target of numerous controversies, including:
Questionable officiating calls, which many fans and analysts believed were biased against her.
Criticism over her aggressive playstyle, with some labeling her as “too physical” or “undisciplined.”
Debates over her branding and media presence, with detractors claiming she was too focused on personal fame rather than basketball.
Unfair comparisons to Caitlin Clark, with accusations that the media favored Clark over Reese in coverage and narratives.
After months of battling criticism, scrutiny, and perceived unfair treatment, it seems Reese has reached her breaking point.
Where Is She Going Next? Europe or Asia Could Be Her Destination
While Reese has not officially confirmed which international league she plans to join, she hinted that Europe and Asia are her primary considerations.
“I did everything to prove myself, but here, they just look at me through a prejudiced lens,” she said during the interview, her frustration evident.
Many WNBA players have played overseas during the offseason to earn higher salaries, but leaving the league entirely at the peak of her career is an extremely rare move. Some speculate that Reese may be eyeing the EuroLeague Women, which has seen a surge in popularity and offers competitive salaries with passionate fan bases. Others believe she could be considering leagues in China or South Korea, where women’s basketball enjoys a strong following and players are often treated as national celebrities.
By moving overseas, Reese may feel she has the opportunity to rebuild her career in an environment where she believes she will receive more respect and recognition.
How the Basketball World Is Reacting
Reese’s decision has sparked a mixed reaction from the basketball community.
A’ja Wilson, one of the WNBA’s biggest stars, expressed her support for Reese, stating:
“She has every right to find the best place for her career. If she feels disrespected, she should go where she’s valued.”
Meanwhile, other WNBA players, including former teammates, have remained silent, possibly unsure how to respond to such a major decision.
On the other hand, some WNBA analysts have criticized Reese’s choice:
“Leaving the WNBA now is a mistake,” one analyst said. “This is the best league in the world, and if she wants to prove herself, she should do it here.”
The fan reaction on social media has also been divided:
Supporters argue that Reese has been unfairly targeted and that the media has treated her differently than other players.
Critics claim that she is running away from challenges rather than facing them head-on.
How Is the Chicago Sky Reacting? Will They Convince Her to Stay?
The Chicago Sky organization has not made an official statement, but sources within the team have expressed shock and concern over Reese’s decision.
An insider revealed:
“We had no idea she was planning this. Everyone is scrambling right now to see if we can convince her to stay before she signs with an overseas team.”
Chicago invested heavily in Reese as a franchise player, so losing her would be a major setback for the team’s long-term plans. If Reese follows through with her decision, Chicago may be forced to look for an immediate replacement.
A Bigger Debate – How Female Athletes Are Treated in the U.S.
Beyond Reese’s personal decision, this situation has reignited discussions about how female athletes—particularly Black women in sports—are treated in the U.S.
Many fans and activists argue that women’s sports still do not get the respect they deserve, and Black female athletes face additional scrutiny regarding their playing style, appearance, and public image.
Some believe that Reese’s departure could be a wake-up call for the WNBA, prompting the league to reevaluate how it supports and promotes its players.
However, others argue that respect is earned through performance and that if Reese wants to change perceptions, she should continue competing at the highest level within the WNBA.
What’s Next for Angel Reese?
With no official contract signed yet, there’s still a possibility that Reese could reconsider and remain in the WNBA. If Chicago Sky executives make a strong enough case, she might be persuaded to stay.
However, if she does leave, it could set a major precedent for future WNBA stars who feel undervalued or disrespected.
For now, all eyes are on Angel Reese and what she does next. Her choice could reshape the future of women’s basketball, both in the U.S. and internationally.
