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Science and Technology
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Science and Technology
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Union business? Angel Reese is in the room

Union Business: Angel Reese is in the Room

In the high-stakes world of professional basketball, where athletic prowess meets the gritty realities of labor negotiations, Angel Reese has emerged as a force not just on the court but also at the bargaining table. The Chicago Sky's dynamic forward, known for her rebounding dominance and unapologetic confidence, is making waves in the WNBA Players Association (WNBPA). At just 23 years old, Reese has stepped into the union's inner circle, participating in key discussions that could shape the future of women's basketball. This isn't merely a cameo; Reese is deeply involved, bringing her unique perspective as a rising star and a voice for the next generation of players.

Reese's entry into union affairs comes at a pivotal time for the WNBA. The league is riding a wave of unprecedented popularity, fueled by stars like Caitlin Clark, Sabrina Ionescu, and Reese herself. Television ratings have soared, merchandise sales are booming, and attendance figures are shattering records. Yet, beneath this glitter, players are pushing for better compensation, improved working conditions, and greater equity. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), set to expire in 2027, is already under scrutiny, with talks of opt-outs and renegotiations looming. Reese, as a member of the WNBPA's executive committee, is right in the thick of it, advocating for changes that address everything from salary caps to maternity leave policies.

Her involvement began almost serendipitously. Drafted seventh overall by the Sky in 2024, Reese quickly established herself as a double-double machine, averaging impressive numbers in points and rebounds while earning Rookie of the Year buzz. But it was off the court where her leadership truly shone. Encouraged by veterans like Nneka Ogwumike, the WNBPA president, Reese attended her first union meeting shortly after the All-Star break. "I walked in thinking I'd just listen," Reese recounted in a recent interview. "But once I started talking, I realized my voice mattered. These are issues that affect all of us, especially the young players coming up."

What sets Reese apart is her blend of youthful energy and business acumen. A product of LSU, where she led the Tigers to a national championship in 2023, Reese has always been more than an athlete. She's a fashion icon, a social media influencer with millions of followers, and now, a budding entrepreneur. This multifaceted identity informs her union work. She's particularly vocal about revenue sharing, arguing that players deserve a larger slice of the pie from the league's growing media deals and sponsorships. "We've built this league," she said during a panel discussion at the WNBA's annual leadership summit. "The fans are here because of us. It's time our paychecks reflect that."

One of the key issues on the table is the salary structure. The WNBA's maximum salary currently hovers around $240,000, a far cry from the NBA's multimillion-dollar contracts. Reese, drawing from her own experiences, highlights how this disparity forces many players to seek overseas opportunities during the offseason, leading to fatigue and injury risks. "I've seen teammates grinding in Europe just to make ends meet," she explained. "We need domestic options that pay fairly so we can focus on our craft year-round." Her push for a higher salary floor and performance-based incentives has gained traction among peers, with several All-Stars echoing her calls for reform.

Beyond finances, Reese is championing player welfare. Mental health resources, she insists, must be expanded. The pressures of fame, especially for high-profile rookies like herself, can be overwhelming. "Social media is a double-edged sword," Reese noted. "It amplifies our platform but also exposes us to constant scrutiny. The union needs to ensure we have support systems in place." She's also advocating for better travel accommodations—upgrading from commercial flights to charters for all teams—and enhanced family leave policies. As someone who values her close-knit family, Reese sees these as essential for retaining talent and promoting work-life balance in a demanding profession.

Reese's influence extends to diversity and inclusion. As a Black woman in a league where representation matters, she's pushing for initiatives that address racial equity, from hiring practices in front offices to community outreach programs. "The WNBA is diverse, but we need to make sure that diversity is reflected at every level," she stated. Her efforts align with broader union goals, including partnerships with organizations like the Players' Tribune to amplify player stories and foster solidarity.

Critics might argue that Reese, as a rookie, is overstepping. Some veterans whisper that her rapid ascent could ruffle feathers. But supporters, including Ogwumike, praise her enthusiasm. "Angel brings fresh ideas and a fearlessness that's invigorating," Ogwumike said. "She's not afraid to challenge the status quo, and that's exactly what we need right now." Indeed, Reese's participation in recent bargaining sessions has been described as electric. During one marathon meeting in New York, she reportedly held the floor for over 20 minutes, dissecting revenue projections and proposing innovative endorsement revenue splits.

This isn't Reese's first foray into advocacy. Back at LSU, she was outspoken about Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, leveraging her platform to secure lucrative deals. That experience has prepared her for the union's complexities. "NIL taught me the business side of sports," she reflected. "Now, I'm applying that to help all players, not just myself." Her approach is collaborative; she often consults with teammates like Kamilla Cardoso and mentors from other sports, drawing inspiration from NBA players who've navigated similar union battles.

Looking ahead, the WNBPA faces tough negotiations with league commissioner Cathy Engelbert and team owners. With the league's valuation skyrocketing—thanks in part to stars like Reese—the players are poised to demand more. Potential sticking points include pension plans, marketing commitments, and even expansion franchises. Reese is optimistic but realistic. "Change doesn't happen overnight," she said. "But if we stay united, we can build a league that's sustainable and fair."

Reese's union work hasn't come without personal sacrifice. Balancing practices, games, and meetings means long hours and little downtime. Yet, she thrives on it. "This is bigger than basketball," she emphasized. "It's about legacy—leaving the game better for those who come after us." Her fans, dubbed the "Reese's Pieces," have rallied behind her, flooding social media with support for her advocacy.

In Chicago, where the Sky are building a contender, Reese's off-court efforts are boosting team morale. Coach Teresa Weatherspoon has lauded her maturity: "Angel's not just a player; she's a leader in every sense." As the Sky push for playoffs, Reese's dual role underscores a new era in the WNBA—one where players are empowered to shape their destiny.

Ultimately, Angel Reese's presence in the union room symbolizes a shift. No longer are rookies expected to sit quietly; they're invited to the table, their insights valued. As the WNBA evolves, Reese is ensuring that the players' voices are heard loud and clear. Her journey from college phenom to union powerhouse is a testament to her resilience and vision. In the words of Reese herself: "I'm here to play ball and make change. Why not do both?"

This involvement could redefine player power in women's sports, setting precedents that ripple beyond basketball. As negotiations heat up, all eyes will be on Reese—not just for her on-court highlights, but for the deals she helps broker off it. The future of the WNBA looks brighter with her in the room, proving that sometimes, the most impactful plays happen far from the hardwood. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Chicago Sun-Times Article at:
[ https://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-sky/2025/07/24/union-business-angel-reese-is-in-the-room ]