In a groundbreaking stride for women’s sports, WNBA rookie Angel Reese has made headlines by becoming a part-owner of the DC Power Football Club. This development comes as a significant move in Reese’s career, showcasing not just her prowess on the basketball court but also her commitment to elevating women’s sports on a broader scale.
Rising Above Challenges with Financial Acumen
While WNBA salaries are often scrutinized for their modest sums, Reese’s story highlights the evolving landscape where NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and endorsements are paving the way for greater financial freedom for female athletes. Fresh off her entry into the professional basketball scene, the Chicago Sky forward has not only stepped into the league but has also taken a significant stake in women’s professional soccer.
At just 22, Reese, who was the No. 7 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, acquired a 5% ownership in the DC Power FC, a promising new team in the USL Super League. Her investment is a strong statement about the role of young athletes in leadership beyond their respective sports. “I want to help grow women’s sports and elevate female athletes across the board,” Reese stated, emphasizing her vision for a broader influence that transcends basketball.
A Strategic Move into Soccer
The DC Power FC is set to kick off its inaugural season this August, representing a fresh chapter for women’s professional soccer in Washington D.C. Reese’s investment in the team is not just a financial decision but a personal commitment to her community in the DMV area, where she grew up and first honed her athletic skills.
Sportico reports that Reese, a Maryland native and former LSU standout, had been in talks with the soccer club about a potential ownership role even during her college days. This proactive approach to her career in sports extends her influence beyond the basketball court, setting a precedent for future athletes looking to leverage their success into broader ventures.
Angel Reese’s Endorsements and Influence
Reese’s journey from a college athlete to a professional in the WNBA and now a soccer team owner reflects the potential of modern athletes to harness their marketability for substantial financial gain. Her WNBA rookie contract totals $324,383 over four years, according to Spotrac, but her value soared beyond $1 million annually during her NCAA tenure due to lucrative endorsements.
Her commitment to her sponsors and teammates remains strong. Following her appearance at the MET Gala, Reese promised to gift her Chicago Sky teammates with Beats By Dre headphones, a continuation of her previous endorsements during her college career at LSU.
A New Era for Women’s Sports
Angel Reese’s venture into ownership is a testament to the dynamic changes in the sports industry, where female athletes are increasingly becoming key figures in sports management and entrepreneurship. As Reese and her peers continue to break barriers and set new standards, the landscape of professional women’s sports is poised for exciting growth and broader recognition.
As the WNBA season progresses and the DC Power FC prepares for its debut, all eyes will be on Reese, not only for her performance with the Chicago Sky but also for her pioneering role off the field. Her story is not just inspiring; it’s a blueprint for future generations of female athletes who dare to dream big, both in and out of the sports arenas.
Source- Street
