Key Takeaways:
– WNBA player Angel Reese becomes a part-owner of DC Power Football Club, a professional women’s soccer team in Washington, D.C.
– Reese aims to expand her influence beyond the basketball court and elevate women’s sports.
– She maintains considerable endorsement deals, exemplifying the current focus on NIL athletes over major pro sports players.
– Her recent multi-year shoe deal with Reebok is one way she’s found to balance her rookie salary.
WNBA Star Angel Reese’s New Venture
Former college sensation and current WNBA rookie, Angel Reese, adds a new feather to her cap – professional sports owner. The Maryland hometown hero is now part-owner of the DC Power Football Club, the newly minted professional women’s soccer team set to make its debut in the USL Super League this summer. This milestone was announced by the football club on May 22.
Reese’s Goal for Women’s Sports
Reese has shown a predominant interest in promoting women’s sports and has ambitions to create more opportunities for female athletes. Having expressed her gratitude for her new venture, she admits cherishing her hometown affinity and states that her investment is a move towards ‘women taking over’. Reese acknowledges that many young Black women lack these opportunities, hence it’s even more important for her to step up and make a difference.
Her Endorsements and Success
Even before entering the WNBA, Reese had already secured a considerable number of endorsements. According to SponsorUnited’s report about NIL deals in college athletics, Reese tied with UCLA’s Chase Griffin after securing 26 deals within the past year. Her social media platforms experienced the highest follower growth among all athletes. Reese’s affinity for high-profile deals demonstrates her considerable off-court influence in addition to her significant on-court talents.
Her prominent brand partnerships extend to loud names like Reebok, Beats, and Tampax. She also capitalized on a lucrative multi-year, exclusive partnership with Panini America for autographed trading cards and memorabilia.
Reese’s Business Acumen
Reese exhibits commendable business acumen, which is evident in her latest ownership acquisition. She has conveyed her excitement about the partnership and sees this investment as a valuable opportunity to advance women’s soccer in the DMV (District, Maryland, Virginia) community. With her on-court prowess, she’s paving the way for the next generation, making brands like USL Super League eager to have stars like Reese on board.
Multi-Year Deal with Reebok
One of the best-known endorsements Reese has secured is her multi-year shoe deal with Reebok. Despite earning a rookie salary, she’s found innovative ways to compensate, and her Reebok deal is one of the most notable. Recently, she hinted towards the future release of her signature shoe line from the brand.
Reese credits her relationship with Shaquille O’Neal, the president of basketball at Reebok, as a key factor in this partnership. She states that the opportunity to be the face of women’s basketball at Reebok and the chance to be involved in the rebranding efforts was an irresistible offer.
As Angel Reese continues to make strides on and off the court, it’s evident that she has her sights set on building a lasting legacy in the sports industry. This new chapter as part-owner of the DC Power Football Club further solidifies Reese’s commitment to women’s sports and underlines her continuous drive to create new opportunities for future generation athletes.
Source: Heavy.com.