WNBA

Angel Reese Reacts To Concerns Over Her WNBA Salary

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Angel Reese has addressed the drama surrounding her salary with the WNBA. Appearing on ESPN, she explained that she’s not too worried about her compensation and instead, she plays basketball for the love of the game. She’s currently playing on a four-year deal with the Chicago Sky worth $343K.

“I mean, obviously, people thought me leaving college–I would take a huge pay gap and pay drop,” she began. “I wasn’t getting paid in college, so that check that I do get here is a bonus, I mean, being able to play for what, four to five months, and get $75,000 on top of the other endorsements that I’m doing, I think it’s a plus for me, I mean, I play the game I love, not for the money, I play because I love basketball and genuinely love basketball. And now that I’m a pro and being able to continue to work with these brands long term, I think that’s something people don’t really realize.”

Read More: Angel Reese Divulges On Ground Slam During Game: “It’s Just Basketball”

The Chicago Sky Select Angel Reese During The WNBA Draft

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 15: Angel Reese poses with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert after being selected seventh overall pick by the Chicago. Sky during the 2024 WNBA Draft at Brooklyn Academy of Music on April 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

She also discussed getting endorsement deals. “I love that the brands want to work with us and continue to want to work with us,” she said. “I want people to know the deals don’t stop in college when you go to the pros, they continue, and I feel like they’ve even grown even more.” Reese joined the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft after the team selected her with the seventh overall pick.

Angel Reese Speaks On Her WNBA Contract

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom)

Check out Reese’s full comments on her WNBA salary above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Angel Reese and the rest of the WNBA on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Angel Reese Shushes Critics After Graduating From LSU: “Thought Somebody Without A College Degree Said Sum”

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Angel Reese Slammed To The Floor During Brutal Foul Leading To Ejection

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Angel Reese was choke-slammed to the floor by Alyssa Thomas during the Connecticut Sun’s 86-82 win over the Chicago Sky on Saturday night. The brutal foul led to an ejection for Thomas after referees accessed her a flagrant foul 2 for the hit on the star rookie. The two were battling down low for a rebound in the third quarter when Thomas put her arm around Reese’s neck and threw her to the ground. She exited the game with nine points, six assists, and six rebounds. Reese, who was the seventh pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, finished 13 points and five rebounds.

After the game, she spoke about the incident and appeared unphased by the harsh move. “It’s not just because I’m a rookie, I’m a player,” Reese said in her postgame press conference. “I’m a basketball player, they don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. I want them to come at me every day.”

Read More: Angel Reese Takes Shot At Charles Barkley, Some Think It’s Aimed At Caitlin Clark

Angel Reese Matches Up With Olivia Nelson-Ododa

CHICAGO, IL – MAY 25: Angel Reese #5 of the Chicago Sky and Olivia Nelson-Ododa #10 of the Connecticut Sun during the second half of a WNBA game on May 25, 2024, at Wintrust Arena on in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Reese added: “Thank you AT for sending a message to me. Because I got back up and kept pushing. Me and AT have been cool since we were in Maryland, so I know that it’s no hard feelings and I appreciate her going at me every day or today.” The game marked Reese and the Sky’s second loss of the season. They currently maintain a 2-2 record.

Angel Reese Suffers Hard Foul During Chicago Sky’s Loss To The Connecticut Sun

Check out the clip of Reese going to the ground as well as her reaction above. Be on the lookout for further updates on Angel Reese and the WNBA on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Megan Thee Stallion Twerks On WNBA Star Angel Reese At Her Chicago Concert

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SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Debut Set Viewership Record

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Caitlin Clark Scores 20 in WNBA Debut

The Indiana Fever at Connecticut Sun season opener, featuring Caitlin Clark’s highly anticipated WNBA debut, has shattered viewership records on ESPN platforms. The game drew an impressive 2.1 million viewers across ESPN2, ESPN+, and Disney+, making it the most-watched WNBA game ever on these platforms, whether in the regular season or playoffs. This remarkable milestone surpasses the previous record set by the Phoenix Mercury at the Connecticut Sun game on May 22, 2004.

Viewership peaked at 2.3 million between 7:45 p.m. and 7:59 p.m., highlighting the widespread excitement surrounding Clark’s entrance into the league. The buzz didn’t stop there; the second game of the night, featuring the Phoenix Mercury at Las Vegas Aces, averaged 464,000 viewers, marking a five percent increase compared to last year. Collectively, the two games averaged 1.28 million viewers, a staggering 192 percent rise from last season’s average on ESPN platforms.

The pre-game show, WNBA Countdown, which was presented by Google, also saw a significant uptick in viewership. The show averaged 680,000 viewers across ESPN2, ESPN+, and Disney+, reflecting a 126 percent increase compared to last year’s pre-game averages on ABC and ESPN.

The surge in interest wasn’t confined to TV screens. WNBA content on ESPN.com and the ESPN App experienced a 409 percent increase in unique visitors year-over-year. Social media engagement with WNBA content on ESPN’s accounts also saw a 125 percent boost.

These record-breaking numbers underscore the growing popularity and excitement surrounding the WNBA and the immense draw of rising star Caitlin Clark.

Caitlin Clark made an impressive WNBA debut, scoring a team-high 20 points and hitting four 3-pointers. However, her performance wasn’t enough to secure a win, as the Connecticut Sun defeated her team 92-71.

Alyssa Thomas led the Sun with a triple-double, recording 13 points, 13 assists, and ten rebounds. This marked her 12th career triple-double in the WNBA, extending her league record, including regular season and playoff games.

Despite Clark’s strong showing, the Sun’s balanced attack and Thomas’ brilliance proved too much. The rookie phenom showcased her scoring prowess and provided a glimpse of her potential impact in the league.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Debut Set Viewership Record first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark’s WNBA Debut Set Viewership Record appeared first on The Source.

Angel Reese Shushes Critics After Graduating From LSU: “Thought Somebody Without A College Degree Said Sum”

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Angel Reese is seemingly going to be followed by critics for the rest of her life. Ever since transferring from the University of Maryland to head to Louisiana State, she has had to constantly deal with scrutiny. Her competitive fire on and off the hardwood has led her to be viewed as a controversial figure. Unfortunately, most of hate she has gotten over the last two years or so has pretty much been unearned. However, when you join a major program, more eyes and ears are on you at all times. Of course, the main headline that swirled around the power forward was her alleged low GPA. What was really surprising throughout all of that was that Flau’jae Johnson’s (a now former teammate) parents were feuding with Angel’s parents about this. However, with Angel Reese graduating from LSU, she can put a damper on them and everyone else who had something to say.

According to The Shade Room, the number seven overall draft pick of the Chicago Sky posted some pictures of her in her “Bayou Barbie” graduation cap and black suit just yesterday. Angel graduated in four years with a major in interdisciplinary studies and minors in communication studies, leadership development and psychology. The caption for the post was fitting, addressing all of the doubters and fools who believed the supposed fake news. “So now what? what was said? oh okay that’s what i thought. I graduated from THE LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY IN 4 YEARS ON TIME💋 i thought somebody without a college degree said sum.😘”

Read More: Layzie Bone Isn’t Enjoying Kendrick Lamar & Drake’s Beef: “I’m A Fan Of Both Of Theirs”

Angel Reese Silences Her GPA Hounders

Supporters came in droves to congratulate Angel across all of her social media accounts. “oh cause who not pretty & smart? i see a BIG GRAD that’s TOP PRIORITY 🤭😘” one user writes. “OH OKAYYY! Congratulations!🎉 🎓Beauty, brains, & talent!🔥” another adds. We will never know the true reason why Angel Reese missed time, but that information honestly does not need to come out. Congratulations to the grad!

What are your thoughts on Angel Reese graduating from Louisiana State University? How do you feel about her responding to the haters in her celebration post? Do you see her becoming a star player in the WNBA in the future, why or why not? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Angel Reese. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the sports world.

Read More: Lil Meech Reveals Reason For Summer Walker Breakup

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WNBA x Air Jordan 3 “Desert Camo” Dropping Next Month

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The WNBA is teaming up with Air Jordan for an exciting new release: the Air Jordan 3 “Desert Camo” colorway. This collaboration highlights the growing influence of women’s basketball in the sneaker world. The Air Jordan 3 has an iconic design, and the “Desert Camo” version makes a bold statement. Also, the sneaker features a classic desert camo upper, adding a rugged and stylish touch. Jordan branding is prominently displayed on the tongues and heels, ensuring the design stays true to its roots. The combination of the WNBA’s rising popularity and the timeless appeal of the Air Jordan 3 makes this release highly anticipated.

This partnership with Air Jordan reflects the league’s dedication to pushing boundaries and celebrating its athletes’ achievements. The camo pattern adds a unique flair to the traditional Air Jordan 3 silhouette, making it a standout piece in any sneaker collection. Fans of the WNBA and sneaker enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the release of this special edition. The collaboration underscores the WNBA’s growing presence in the fashion and sports industries. Overall, with its distinctive design and strong branding, the Air Jordan 3 “Desert Camo” will be a memorable release.

Read More: Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG “Canary” Receives Slight Delay

“Desert Camo” WNBA x Air Jordan 3

WNBA
Image via JD Sports UK

These shoes have a gum rubber sole and a clean white midsole. Also, the uppers are made constructed from leather, and feature the iconic desert camo look all over. Further, Jordan Jumpman branding is located on the tongues and heels of this sneaker.

More Photos

Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the WNBA x Air Jordan 3 “Desert Camo” will be released on July 13th. Also, the sneaker will have a retail price of $200 when it is released. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.

Air Jordan 3
Image via JD Sports UK
WNBA
Image via JD Sports UK

Read More: Nike Dunk Low “Bright Cactus” Official Photos Revealed

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Latto Brought Her Big, Big Energy Courtside To Support Angel Reese In Her WNBA Debut

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Latto Pre-GRAMMY Gala GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons 2023
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Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Cameron Brink, and Kamilla Cardoso headline a potentially trajectory-altering rookie class for the WNBA, and the 2024 season tipped off this week. Reese’s debut with the Chicago Sky came against the Dallas Wings in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday night, May 15, and her magnetism was already apparent.

Latto sat courtside. When asked what brought her to the Sky and Wings’ season-opener, Latto plainly stated, “Angel Reese.” The multi-platinum rapper was also asked for her thoughts on the unprecedented attention surrounding the WNBA. “It’s the year of the woman, it’s the year of the female, it’s the year of the girl,” Latto said. “I’m here for the girl power, period. Let’s go, Angel Reese.”

Latto posted part of the clip on X (formerly Twitter), and Reese reposted it along with the message, “DUHHH!! THE BIGGEST [lips emoji]”

Roughly one year ago, Reese was fresh off capturing the first NCAA Division I basketball national championship in LSU history when she appeared in the video for Latto and Cardi B’s “Put It On Da Floor Again.” Reese also co-starred alongside Flau’jae Johnson, her now-former LSU teammate, in NLE Choppa’s “Champions” video.

Last month, Chicago drafted Reese at No. 7 overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft. The 22-year-old star forward posted 12 points, eight rebounds, one assist, and one steal in her W debut, a 87-79 loss to Dallas. The Sky will remain in Dallas to play the Wings again on Saturday, May 18.

SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark Scores 20 in WNBA Debut, But Alyssa Thomas’ Triple-Double Leads Sun to Victory

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Caitlin Clark Scores 20 in WNBA Debut

Caitlin Clark made an impressive WNBA debut, scoring a team-high 20 points and hitting four 3-pointers. However, her performance wasn’t enough to secure a win, as the Connecticut Sun defeated her team 92-71.

Alyssa Thomas led the Sun with a triple-double, recording 13 points, 13 assists, and ten rebounds. This marked her 12th career triple-double in the WNBA, extending her league record, which includes both regular season and playoff games.

Despite Clark’s strong showing, the Sun’s balanced attack and Thomas’ all-around brilliance proved too much. The rookie phenom showcased her scoring prowess and provided a glimpse of her potential impact in the league.

But this moment between Clark and last year’s No. 1 pick, Aliyah Boston, is a look into the future.

You can see the highlights below.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark Scores 20 in WNBA Debut, But Alyssa Thomas’ Triple-Double Leads Sun to Victory first appeared on The Source.

The post SOURCE SPORTS: Caitlin Clark Scores 20 in WNBA Debut, But Alyssa Thomas’ Triple-Double Leads Sun to Victory appeared first on The Source.

Kehlani Narrated The Golden State Valkyries’ Announcement Video And Fans Are In Their Feelings

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kehlani
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Over the past few years, it’s become common practice for NBA and WNBA teams to kick off their seasons with hype videos, often narrated by hometown artists from the cities where the franchises are situated. For instance, GloRilla narrated a video for the Grizzlies a couple of years ago.

So, when the WNBA’s newest franchise, the Golden State Valkyries, posted a hype video announcing their launch, it only made sense they would tap a Bay Area artist to do the narration. Their choice, Kehlani, turned out to be perfect in more ways than one.

While Kehlani was already involved in the WNBA thanks to their 2023 All-Star Game performance, you may remember that the show inspired a certain amount of, well… thirst among both fans and players, as there is a lot of overlap between the target audiences of the W and Kehlani (“the girls, the gays, and the theys,” as the saying goes).

The response to the Valkyries’ launch video was no different. “Kehlani” trended on Twitter (which I am never calling “X,” sorry, Elon) as fans fell in love with the SweetSexySavage tones of Kehlani’s delivery and the possibility of seeing future draft prospect Paige Bueckers suiting up in the new franchise’s apparent black and purple.

“Sharing a name with a bisexual Tessa Thompson character and getting the announcement narrated by Kehlani??” wrote one fan. “That’s called REALLY knowing your audience.” You can check out more of the impassioned responses below.

A’ja Wilson Teaming Up With Nike To Release Nike A’One

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Nike is excited to announce the upcoming launch of the A’ja Wilson signature shoe, marking her as a prominent figure in Nike’s elite lineup. Wilson’s journey to this milestone highlights her exceptional talent and influence in basketball, showcasing Nike’s dedication to supporting diverse athletes. As a two-time WNBA MVP, Wilson’s accolades speak for themselves, solidifying her place as a deserving recipient of this honor. She has been actively involved in the design process of her signature shoe for over a year, collaborating closely with renowned Nike designer Ben Nethongkome. The A’One shoe, slated for release in 2025, is crafted to deliver both performance and style.

Wilson’s main priorities were a lightweight and comfortable design suitable for both on-court play and everyday wear. Nethongkome ensured that the shoe embodies Wilson’s on-court prowess and off-court style through meticulous design and craftsmanship. Though images of the A’ja Wilson x Nike collaboration are yet to be revealed, anticipation is high for the debut of this highly anticipated sneaker. Wilson’s signature shoe is expected to make a significant impact in the basketball and sneaker communities, showcasing her influence both on and off the court. Stay tuned for updates on the release date of the A’One and get ready to experience the perfect blend of performance and style.

Read More: Candace Parker Named President Of Adidas Women’s Basketball

Nike A’One

Introducing the highly anticipated collaboration between A’ja Wilson and Nike, set to drop next year. While no photos are available, we can expect a performance sneaker. Looking at sneakers for Caitlin Clark and Sabrina Ionescu, the sneakers will certainly channel Wilson’s personal branding. Expect both vibrant and simple color schemes, with high-quality materials.

Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Nike A’One will be released at some point in 2025. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be announced closer to when they drop. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.

Read More: Ice Spice Stuns Courtside At Knicks Game As Fans Credit Her For The Team’s Win

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Ice Cube’s BIG3 Lands $10 Million Deal After The Sell Of One Of Its Franchise Teams

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Ice Cube
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All eyes are on women’s sports—more specifically basketball from the collegiate level to the pros. But the WNBA isn’t the only sports league inking major deals, Ice Cube’s BIG3 is also getting in on the action.

Yesterday (May 10), Bloomberg revealed that the newest league on the block inked an eight-figure deal.

According to the report, investment firm DCB Sports has acquired the forthcoming Los Angeles franchise for $10 million.

“This is a historic day for the BIG3,” said Ice Cube. “We could not be happier to entrust part of our league to Gary [LaDrido, managing partner of DCB Sports] and this seasoned group of sports investors ahead of our most important season yet. We have all-star basketball talent, millions of loyal fans around the world, and we are one of the most viewed sports programs of the summer on CBS.”

Back when the BIG3 was founded in 2017, the league was a touring strong hold. Since rising in popularity, it has model has shifted to the industry standard “city-centric” with Los Angeles being one of its 12 teams.

In a statement, Ice Cube spoke about the transition. “Basing our teams in home cities allows BIG3 to engage local communities and fanbases,” he said. “Bringing in ownership groups each with their own sports expertise, business, and capabilities beginning in 2025 will allow BIG3 to grow exponentially. I know that DCB Sports will do right by the people of Los Angeles and together, we’ll continue to change the game.”

Although Caitlin Clark ultimately decided turn away the BIG3’s offer, given its latest expansion other stars are considering signing on the dotted line.