Angel Reese has experienced a series of challenges since her return from a left wrist injury. She made an impressive Unrivaled league debut, securing a double-double, but her efforts were not enough to prevent a 79-73 loss to Vinyl BC. In the days following, Reese has faced setbacks both on and off the court.
Reese, known for her passionate support of the Baltimore Ravens, cheered the team on during their AFC Divisional Playoff game against the Buffalo Bills. Posting her enthusiasm on social media, she shared phrases like “GO FLOCK” and “Touchdownnnnn.” However, the Ravens fell short in a heartbreaking 27-25 loss, dashing their Super Bowl hopes. Following the defeat, Reese expressed her disappointment with an upset emoji on social media.
Her challenges extended beyond the game. The sudden shutdown of TikTok in the U.S. dealt a significant blow to Reese, who had built a fanbase of 5.2 million followers on the platform. TikTok was a key part of her brand, enabling her to engage directly with fans, promote merchandise, and secure partnerships. With TikTok gone, Reese lost a vital income stream and the ability to maintain her direct connection with supporters. She voiced her frustration about the situation on Twitter, expressing concerns over the impact on her personal and professional life.
Reese’s reliance on social media is not new. She has been open about her financial realities, revealing the importance of sponsorships and partnerships in her career. For instance, she shared that her monthly rent in Chicago costs $8,000, a figure that underscores the financial pressure she faces as a professional athlete. Reese candidly noted that her basketball salary alone doesn’t cover such expenses, highlighting the critical role of her online presence in supplementing her income.
The shutdown of TikTok leaves Reese with Twitter and YouTube as her primary platforms for connecting with fans. While the full financial impact remains unclear, the loss of TikTok is undoubtedly a significant setback for the athlete. Despite these challenges, Reese has remained resilient, expressing her determination to move forward.