Angel Reese Inspired by Nikola Jokic & Giannis’ Greatness: Aiming High in Her Basketball Career

Angel Reese, the dynamic forward for the Chicago Sky in the WNBA, has been steadily making a name for herself as one of the most promising talents in women’s basketball today. Known for her versatility, intensity, and competitive spirit, Reese is not only a force on the court but also a rising figure who draws inspiration from some of the greatest NBA players — Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

This article explores Angel Reese’s journey in professional basketball, her admiration for these NBA superstars, how their playing styles influence her ambitions, and what lies ahead for this young athlete as she aims to reach new heights in her career.

The Rise of Angel Reese in the WNBA

Angel Reese began her professional career with the Chicago Sky after a standout collegiate career at LSU. From her rookie season, she showed exceptional ability to impact the game in multiple ways. By the 2025 season, Reese is averaging impressive stats that reflect her growth as a player: 12.6 points per game, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. These numbers earned her a second WNBA All-Star selection and cemented her role as a cornerstone for her team.

Reese’s style of play is marked by physicality combined with surprising finesse. She can dominate the paint with rebounds and inside scoring but also possesses a reliable outside shot and the court vision to make playmaking passes. This unique blend has earned her recognition as a “modern big” — a player who breaks the traditional mold of the power forward/center positions.

Drawing Inspiration from NBA Legends

What sets Angel Reese apart is her ambition fueled by role models who have revolutionized basketball. She openly admires Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets and Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks — two NBA MVPs known for their versatility, skill, and game-changing impact.

In a recent interview, Reese described herself as a “unicorn” player, a term popularized in women’s basketball to refer to athletes with rare and diverse skill sets. She explained that watching Jokic and Giannis — both players who combine size, skill, and agility in unprecedented ways — has shaped her vision of what she wants to achieve.

Jokic’s ability to orchestrate the offense with pinpoint passing and scoring from multiple levels inspires Reese to improve her court vision and playmaking. Meanwhile, Giannis’s relentless drive, athleticism, and defensive prowess motivate her to push her physical limits and become a defensive anchor.

Public Recognition and Support

Angel Reese’s commitment to embodying the traits of these NBA stars has not gone unnoticed. In June 2025, Reese posted a video showcasing her all-around game, highlighting her passing, rebounding, and scoring skills. This clip garnered attention not only from WNBA fans but also from Giannis Antetokounmpo himself, who responded on social media with praise: “That’s a great teammate right there,” accompanied by supportive emojis.

This kind of acknowledgment from an NBA superstar underscores the growing respect and recognition Reese is earning within the broader basketball community. It also highlights the increasing crossover admiration between men’s and women’s professional basketball, emphasizing the shared values of skill, hard work, and leadership.

Balancing Aggressiveness and Skill

One of Angel Reese’s defining characteristics is her aggressive approach to the game. She plays with an edge, rarely backing down from physical battles under the rim. Yet, what distinguishes her is how she pairs this toughness with a high basketball IQ, making smart decisions and maintaining composure even in high-pressure moments.

Reese has often been described by commentators as a “game-changer” who can shift momentum with key rebounds or clutch baskets. Her ability to play multiple roles on the court — scorer, rebounder, passer, defender — gives her team tactical flexibility.

This multifaceted game mirrors the versatility displayed by both Jokic and Giannis, reinforcing why they serve as such fitting inspirations.

Off the Court: A Growing Role Model

Beyond her on-court achievements, Angel Reese is cultivating a strong presence as a role model, especially among young female athletes. She uses her platform on social media to speak openly about the importance of self-confidence, mental toughness, and breaking barriers in sports.

Reese also advocates for greater visibility and support for women’s basketball, recognizing that growing the game requires athletes to be ambassadors both during and after games.

Her candidness about the challenges faced by female athletes, combined with her inspiring work ethic, makes her a relatable and motivating figure.

Future Aspirations and Legacy

Angel Reese’s ambitions extend far beyond her current success. Drawing motivation from NBA greats who have changed the game, she aims to push the boundaries of what is expected from women’s basketball players.

Looking forward, Reese plans to:

Expand her offensive arsenal, becoming a more consistent shooter from distance.
Enhance her leadership role on the Chicago Sky, mentoring younger teammates.
Engage more in community outreach and initiatives to inspire the next generation of players.
Continue advocating for equality and growth in women’s sports.

Her career trajectory suggests that she will be remembered not only for her statistics and highlights but also for her dedication to elevating the sport.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s journey reflects the evolution of basketball — a game increasingly defined by skill, versatility, and character. Inspired by the greatness of Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, she is charting a path that blends physical dominance with finesse and intelligence.

As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes remain on this rising star who aims high, plays hard, and inspires many. Angel Reese’s story is a testament to the power of role models and the relentless pursuit of excellence in sports.

Related Articles for Further Reading:

Angel Reese Name Drops Two NBA MVPs Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo in Bold Comparison
Giannis Antetokounmpo Responds to Angel Reese’s Viral Video
The Rise of Angel Reese in the WNBA: A New Era of Versatile Bigs