The world of sports, culture, and activism has collided in a historic moment. Today, TIME Magazine officially unveiled its annual list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, and standing tall among world leaders, titans of industry, and global icons is none other than the “Bayou Barbie” herself: Angel Reese.

This recognition marks a seismic shift in the cultural landscape. It is the first time a female athlete of her generation has commanded this level of global attention, proving that Angel Reese is no longer just a basketball star—she is a movement.

The “Reese Effect”: Beyond the Stat Sheet

In 2025, Angel Reese’s impact cannot be measured by double-doubles alone. While her dominance on the court remains undisputed, TIME has recognized her for the “Reese Effect”—a phenomenon that has revitalized women’s basketball and turned it into prime-time, must-watch television.

Reese hasn’t just broken records; she has broken the mold of what a professional athlete is “supposed” to look like. By blending elite athleticism with a high-fashion persona, she has bridged the gap between the WNBA and the global luxury market, proving that you can dominate the paint and the front row of Fashion Week simultaneously.

The Power of “Unapologetic Authenticity”

In the tribute written for her TIME 100 profile, industry icons praise Reese for her unwavering authenticity. In an era where public figures are often highly curated and filtered, Reese’s “take me as I am” attitude has resonated with Gen Z and beyond.

• Defying Stereotypes: She has faced criticism and praise with the same fierce composure, never backing down from her identity as a strong, outspoken Black woman in sports.

• The Voice of a Generation: Reese has used her platform to advocate for pay equity, mental health awareness, and the empowerment of young girls in underserved communities.

“I’m not just playing for a ring anymore,” Reese told TIME. “I’m playing so that the next girl who looks like me knows she doesn’t have to choose between being a beast on the court and a queen off of it.”

A Commercial Juggernaut

The inclusion of Reese in the TIME 100 also highlights her role as a pioneer in the “New Economy” of sports. As of 2025, her brand portfolio spans from global tech giants to haute couture.

• NIL Trailblazer: After revolutionizing the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) landscape in college, she has transitioned into a pro career that sees her as the face of multi-billion dollar campaigns.

• Economic Catalyst: Wherever Reese goes, the money follows. From sold-out arenas to record-breaking jersey sales, she is a primary engine behind the WNBA’s most profitable year in history.

Cultural Iconography and Global Reach

The “Bayou Barbie” brand has gone global. In 2025, her influence stretches from Baltimore to Beijing. She has become a symbol of the “New American Dream”—one that prizes self-made success, digital savvy, and social responsibility.

TIME’s selection committee noted that Reese was chosen not just for her performance during the 2025 season, but for her role in a “cultural reckoning.” She has forced the world to respect women’s sports as a powerhouse of entertainment and influence, rather than a secondary thought.

A Legacy in the Making

At such a young age, Angel Reese has achieved a level of “Influence” that usually takes decades to build. By being named to the TIME 100, she joins the ranks of legends like Serena Williams and LeBron James—athletes who used their jerseys as a cape to fly beyond the world of sports.

As we look at the cover of TIME, with Reese’s piercing gaze and confident stance, it is clear: This isn’t just a moment; it’s the beginning of an era.

Why This Matters in 2025

The world is no longer asking if women’s sports can be profitable or popular. Angel Reese has provided the answer with a resounding “Yes.” Her inclusion in the TIME 100 is a victory for every athlete who was told they were “too loud,” “too much,” or “too different.”

Angel Reese is the 2025 Icon of the Year. She didn’t just join the conversation; she changed the language entirely.