Angel Reese, the 22-year-old forward for the Chicago Sky, is no stranger to making headlines. But ahead of her highly anticipated Reebok sneaker launch, she found herself at the center of a storm. During an interview with Elle, Reese expressed her hopes for her “Angel Reese 1s” to become a cultural staple, boldly stating: “I want people to wear the Angel Reese 1s everywhere and just to be a household name, just like how they wear Jordans everywhere.”

The statement was followed by an even sharper soundbite circulating online: “Jordans are for the past. My shoes are for the future.” That one sentence turned excitement into controversy, with fans and critics alike weighing in on whether a second-year WNBA star had the standing to compare herself—or her sneakers—to Michael Jordan.

Why Comparing to Michael Jordan Is Risky
Michael Jordan’s Air Jordans are more than just shoes—they’re a global phenomenon. Built on six NBA championships, iconic performances, and Nike’s marketing power, Air Jordans defined sports culture in the 1980s and 1990s. They became so influential that Jordan’s brand eventually spun off into its own empire, generating billions in annual revenue.

The cultural weight of Jordans is unmatched. Stories of robberies in the ’90s over coveted pairs became part of urban legend, and even in 2025, demand hasn’t slowed. Earlier this year, nearly 2,000 pairs worth half a million dollars were stolen from a train in Arizona. Against that kind of legacy, Reese’s bold comparison seemed to many like overreaching.

The Online Reaction: Applause and Criticism

Yet, the backlash wasn’t unanimous. Some fans admitted the shoes looked stylish, even if the Jordan comparison was far-fetched. “They aren’t bad looking,” one commenter conceded, while others on Instagram celebrated the boldness of her vision. When Reese revealed the launch date—September 18—the hype only intensified.

Video: Angel Reese RIPPED By Fans After Bizarre Michael Jordan Claim Ahead of Signature Shoe Release

The Sneakers Themselves: Can They Deliver?
Reebok has been strategic in building momentum. Teasers of Reese wearing her sneakers during practice and photo shoots have circulated online, generating curiosity. Available in multiple colorways, including a standout pink, the “Angel Reese 1s” are designed to appeal beyond basketball fans. They’re aimed at the lifestyle sneaker market, where cultural influence often matters more than performance features.

By choosing to wear her own signature shoes during games, Reese is following the same playbook Jordan did decades ago—blending performance with image. Whether fans love or hate the comparison, they’ll see her brand front and center every time she steps on the court.

The Bigger Picture: Branding and Women’s Sports

Reese’s comments reflect a generational shift. Modern athletes no longer view themselves solely as players—they see themselves as brands. Building influence outside of the game is now as important as what happens on the scoreboard. For Reese, confidence isn’t just a personality trait; it’s a marketing strategy.

It’s also worth noting that very few WNBA players have had signature shoe deals. Reese’s collaboration with Reebok is part of a broader push to elevate women athletes in industries historically dominated by men. Even if the “Angel Reese 1s” never reach Jordan’s cultural dominance, they still represent progress. They signal that women’s basketball stars can command space in the sneaker world—and that visibility matters.

Why the Backlash May Not Matter
Critics might view Reese’s statements as arrogance, but her supporters argue it’s ambition. For a young player, making bold comparisons can be risky, but it also keeps her relevant. In today’s fast-moving media cycle, attention is currency. By sparking a debate, Reese ensured her shoes will launch with her name at the center of the conversation—something every brand dreams of.

Conclusion: Ambition or Overconfidence?

Video: Angel Reese GETS DESTROYED After Making BIZARRE Michael Jordan Claims!

Angel Reese’s comments comparing her sneakers to Air Jordans may have struck a nerve, but they also did exactly what ambitious statements are meant to do—get people talking. The odds of her matching Jordan’s global legacy are slim, but her willingness to put herself in the conversation shows a fearless belief in her future.

For the WNBA, this moment is bigger than a pair of shoes. It signals a growing recognition of women athletes as both cultural figures and business leaders. Whether the “Angel Reese 1s” become a staple or just a first step, Reese has already succeeded in one thing: ensuring that her name—and her brand—will not be ignored.Angel Reese ripped by fans after making bizarre Michael Jordan claim ahead of her first signature shoe release