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Trade decline: Angel Reese turns down $476.9 million contract just to become…

Angel Reese, the 22-year-old WNBAstar for the Chicago Sky, has become a global sensation after a record-breaking rookie season that could have been even better if not for an injury that kept the team out of the playoffs. Like many young athletes, Reese knows how to capitalize on her image through her social media accounts and with brands that sponsor her, such as Reebok and Reese’s chocolate. Given her last name, it was almost inevitable that this Hershey’s sub-brand would partner with her for marketing campaigns. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, she is recognized as a savvy businesswoman. The lifestyle she displays on her social media reflects the luxurious life she enjoys and will likely continue to enjoy for years to come, especially during the off-season, as is the case now.

Speaking of luxury, Angel Reese made waves when she attended the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as part of an elite group invited by Formula 1 and its sponsors. During the event, Reese met celebrities such as actor Terry Crews and her favorite actress, Taraji P. Henson. Henson told Reese, “I’m so proud of you. Just keep doing what you’re doing,” acknowledging her youth and the remarkable accomplishments she has already achieved in her career and personal life. Reese’s brand has grown internationally, with major partnerships and media appearances cementing her as one of the most influential athletes of her generation, of course alongside TIME Magazine’s Athlete of the Year, Caitlin Clark.

On social media, critics often claim that Reese mismanages her money, largely due to the lavish lifestyle she shares online. Her contract with the Chicago Sky is for four years and $324,383, which would be enough for most people to live an extraordinary life. However, because of her luxurious tastes, some might think she’s overspending. In reality, most of her travel is paid for by the companies that invite her. It’s also unclear how much these companies pay her for her image, but rest assured, it’s in the millions.

Speaking of brand sponsors, Reese signed with Reebok a few months ago to lead the rebrand for President Shaquille O’Neal, who is a close friend of Reese and VP Shaquille O’Neal, who are leading the rebrand. Reese said he had many opportunities to sign with other brands, but chose Reebok and said the following: “What was it about Reebok? One, they don’t have a female basketball player as a face. So I wanted to be that,” Reese said at the time. Once again, she shows that she loves the spotlight, that she knows her game can only get better, and that being the face of a rebrand is not just being another athlete.