Forbes recently spotlighted Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson in an article titled “How Angel Reese and A’ja Wilson Lead the WNBA’s Growth,” and there’s no debate — they’re doing exactly that.

A’ja Wilson has long been a visible leader both on and off the court. She inspires college athletes, leads youth workshops, and released her New York Times bestseller Dear Black Girls. Wilson is deeply committed to community impact. This season, she partnered with 2K Foundations to refurbish a Boys & Girls Club court in Las Vegas, a city she’s fully embraced. During her Nike A’One Pre-Heat Tour, she even made time to connect with Final Four teams like Texas in Tampa. Wilson consistently shows up for her team, her city, and the game.
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Angel Reese, one of the most marketable athletes the WNBA has seen in years, is also pushing the league into uncharted territory. She became the first WNBA player to serve on the Met Gala committee and the first to have her own McDonald’s meal. She’s even graced the cover of the Reese’s Puffs cereal box. But it’s not just about the endorsements. Reese is showing love to the legends who paved the way, giving them a platform to share their stories. She’s featured icons like Lisa Leslie and Sheryl Swoopes on her podcast and even selected Leslie to star alongside her in a national McDonald’s commercial.

Both players have graced major magazine covers — a rare sight for women’s basketball players. Wilson has appeared on Time Magazine, Marie Claire, and even the cover of NBA 2K, while attending her first Paris Fashion Week. Reese made history as the first professional athlete to grace the cover of Vogue, and has also been featured in Women’s Health, publications that rarely spotlight basketball players, let alone WNBA stars. She’s made appearances at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and an exclusive Louis Vuitton event. Their presence in these spaces continues to elevate the visibility of women’s basketball and push the boundaries of what’s possible for female athletes in the public eye.

On the court, Reese and Wilson are driving their teams to new heights. Wilson’s Aces became the first WNBA team to sell out season tickets in back-to-back years, while Reese’s arrival in Chicago sparked a franchise-record surge in both home and road attendance. Both players ranked in the top five for jersey sales. Despite not fitting the typical media darling mold, they continue to prove they are true needle movers.