The gaming and basketball worlds collided this week as Angel Reese was announced as the NBA 2K26 WNBA Edition cover athlete—making headlines not just for her on-court success, but for what her selection symbolizes.
In just her rookie season with the Chicago Sky, Reese is averaging an impressive 13.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game—surpassing expectations and making her one of the WNBA’s top new talents. Her selection over more established veterans sends a powerful message: the league and its partners are betting on the new generation.
But this announcement comes during a turbulent time. In early 2025, Reese became the subject of a league investigation after facing racial slurs during a game—an incident that sparked national dialogue. Her placement on the 2K26 cover may be a strategic and symbolic move, addressing deeper issues of equity, visibility, and representation within women’s basketball.
Adding to the intrigue is Reese’s basketball bloodline. Her mother, Angel Webb, was inducted into the UMBC Hall of Fame and had a professional career overseas in Luxembourg. That lineage adds depth to her story—this isn’t just a breakout star; it’s a legacy continuing to unfold.
NBA 2K has long been dominated by male cover athletes, with only recent attempts to highlight WNBA stars. Reese’s appearance marks a potential turning point—not just in marketing, but in redefining who gets celebrated in sports gaming.
### _Related_