Angel Reese, dubbed “Bayou Barbie” after joining LSU’s basketball team in Baton Rouge, has announced her decision to pursue a career in the WNBA following the team’s elimination from the NCAA Tournament by the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite 8.
Reese is undeniably one of the most marketable figures in women’s college basketball. Her on-court brilliance and personality have contributed to a significant $1.8 million NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) value, as reported by On3.
The forward’s NIL value has experienced substantial growth since leading LSU to the national championship in 2023. However, her WNBA salary prospects are considerably lower, with rookie salaries ranging from $62,285 to $74,305, according to Marca.com.
Reflecting on her journey since winning the national championship last season, Reese faced a critical decision within 48 hours of LSU’s Elite Eight loss to Iowa: whether to remain at LSU or turn professional.
“I’ve done everything I wanted to in college,” Reese said when sharing her plans to enter the WNBA draft with Vogue.
She’s expected to be a top-10 pick in the April 15 draft. Caitlin Clark, who already declared for the WNBA draft, is expected to be taken no. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever.
“I’ve done everything I wanted to in college,” Reese said. “I’ve won a national championship, I’ve gotten [Southeastern Conference] Player of the Year, I’ve been an All-American. My ultimate goal is to be a pro — and to be one of the greatest basketball players to play, ever. I feel like I’m ready.”
Angel Reese Left It All On The Court In College
Angel Reese leaves after four collegiate seasons and 2,162 points scored while playing at Maryland from 2020-22 and LSU from 2022-2024. She would lead LSU to the 2022-23 NCAA title.
The 6-foot-3 Reese averaged 18.6 points and 12.3 rebounds in 116 career games where she started in 104. Reese also garnered First Team All-America, First Team All-SEC, and SEC All-Defensive Team selections while at LSU.
In her final game in the Elite 8, Reese scored 17 points and pulled down 20 rebounds but the Tigers lost to the Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight game, 94-87.
