After two seasons in the WNBA and four more in college, Angel Reese has a pretty good idea of how to handle the media, especially when they try to push her into answering controversial questions.
Time and again, the media hound the Maryland native just to get some controversial take they can run with. Her rivalry with Caitlin Clark started it all, and by now, every reporter dealing with Reese knows how to try to get something out of her.
But the recently turned 24-year-old has become a pro at deflecting or avoiding answers. She has a good team working for her who coaches her on how to handle such situations with pride.
However, there have been instances in the past when the Atlanta Dream forward has not been able to keep her emotions in check.
I think Angel is a really great example of her taking her power back. Angel was set up as a villain before she was even in the WNBA, and now she's making it clear that she's gonna protect her peace.
Megan Rapinoe said on A Touch MoreThe USWNT legend said this in reference to Angel Reese's recent stance towards the media. Megan Rapinoe believes that this was the 6'3″ star taking a stand whenever she feels the media is being unfair to her.
The 40-year-old pointed out how sports in today's world have become more of a reality show, with the media and fans trying to dissect anything and everything athletes say. This stance gives the two-time All-Star the power to say no.
Megan Rapinoe got around to talking about this topic after Angel Reese appeared on Michelle Obama's podcast, In My Opinion, where she detailed how she is handling the media.
The media has not always been great for me. And I'll take a fine… I'll have a fine before I have to go to the media and feel like my back is against the wall.
Angel Reese saidThis was after the former first lady and her brother, Craig Robinson, praised the LSU alum for handling herself the way she has despite all the negativity thrown at her.
It seems Angel Reese has taken a more pragmatic approach, as she knows she cannot always deflect or avoid media questions. Instead, if she predicts from the mood on social media that it could be difficult for her, the 2023 college national champion will just avoid speaking with reporters.
Considering she earns nearly eight figures every year through her massive endorsement deals, Reese will not have a problem paying those fines.
Now that Angel Reese is in Atlanta, she will likely take advantage of the proximity to celebrities and businesses to continue building her brand.
But none of that will be fruitful unless she can prove that her arrival has turned the Atlanta Dream into championship contenders. After all, the team was booted out of the first round last season, and the hope is that this will be the year.
After adding two more expansion teams, each WNBA team will play 44 games. Even though that is enough time to establish themselves as contenders, the Dream is aware that there are enough challengers to the Las Vegas Aces' throne.
Angel Reese and her teammates will open the season with a visit to Minneapolis to take on the retooled Minnesota Lynx. They might not be championship contenders this season, but their head coach will not lead her players into this battle without a fight.
Next, she will face close friend Paige Bueckers and her Dallas Wings team. That will be a challenge the Dream has to pass. If they do, the team can head back home and use that momentum when the champions come into Georgia.
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