In a world where athletes are increasingly blurring the lines between sports, fashion, and philanthropy, WNBA star Angel Reese has once again proven she’s a force to be reckoned with.
The Chicago Sky forward, known for her fierce on-court presence and unapologetic off-court style, made headlines this week with a groundbreaking move that extends far beyond the basketball court. Reese, often dubbed the “Bayou Barbie,” has inked a historic 10-year, $10 million partnership with Victoria’s Secret, opting for long-term equity and influence over a one-time payday. But what truly sets this deal apart is her pledge to donate $2 million to the widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, a gesture she describes as “an act of love” in a divided world.The announcement comes on the heels of Reese’s stunning debut at the 2025 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City on October 15, where she became the first professional athlete to grace the iconic runway.
Strutting alongside supermodels like Gigi and Bella Hadid, and Olympic gymnast Suni Lee, Reese donned two show-stopping looks, including the brand’s signature angel wings.
Social media erupted with praise, with fans and celebrities alike hailing her as a trailblazer for women in sports. “We aren’t crying, you are,” captioned InStyle Magazine on Instagram, capturing the emotional high of the moment.
But Reese’s involvement with Victoria’s Secret isn’t just a one-off appearance—it’s the cornerstone of a “global partnership” that positions her as a key ambassador for the brand’s evolving image of empowerment and inclusivity.
Sources close to the deal reveal that Reese turned down a substantial upfront payment in favor of this extended agreement, which includes equity stakes, collaborative product lines, and creative input on future campaigns. “No noise, just deals done well,” Reese posted cryptically on her social media shortly after the show, a nod to her strategic approach to business.
What has everyone talking, however, is the philanthropic twist. In a surprising revelation during a post-show interview, Reese announced her commitment to donate $2 million from the partnership proceeds to Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, who was tragically shot and killed in September 2025.
Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA and a prominent conservative voice, left behind a legacy of political activism that often polarized public opinion. His death sparked widespread fundraisers, raising millions for his family in just days.
Reese, a vocal advocate for social justice and women’s rights, explained her decision as a bridge-building effort. “This is bigger than politics or differences—it’s about humanity and supporting a family in grief,” she said. “Charlie and I might not have agreed on everything, but love transcends that.”The move has sparked a whirlwind of reactions across the spectrum. Supporters praise Reese for her maturity and compassion, seeing it as a step toward unity in a fractured society. “Angel is showing us how to lead with heart,” tweeted one fan. Critics, however, question the optics, with some on the left wondering why a progressive icon like Reese would support a cause tied to conservative figures, and others on the right viewing it as a publicity stunt. Social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), have been abuzz with debates, memes, and think pieces dissecting the implications.
Reese’s mother, who was spotted cheering from the front row at the fashion show, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s choices.
“She’s always been about more than just the game,” she told reporters. This sentiment echoes Reese’s rapid rise since being drafted No. 7 overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft. From her college days at LSU, where she led the Tigers to a national championship, to her rookie season accolades, Reese has built a brand that’s as much about empowerment as it is about athletics.As the dust settles on this bold business move, one thing is clear: Angel Reese isn’t just playing the game—she’s changing it. With her Victoria’s Secret partnership set to unfold over the next decade, and her philanthropic pledge already making waves, Reese is proving that true influence comes from authenticity, strategy, and a willingness to extend grace across divides. In her own words, it’s “bigger than basketball,” and the world is watching to see what’s next.
