The concept of rich athletes and swarming groupies is well-known in the NBA. We’ve seen it play out in countless movies: the suave rookie making millions in his first season and spending lavishly on women.
This narrative has intensified with basketball girlfriends and wives living lavishly and being flown out by their partners. However, this dynamic differs when it comes to the WNBA.
Due to gender pay disparities, WNBA players typically earn less than NBA players. Despite these differences, some WNBA players are banking on their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals for a bigger payday. These players, finally gaining recognition on social media, frequently travel between cities. Recently, male fans have shown they are willing to be supported by WNBA players, disregarding power dynamics. This sparked a discussion about notable women, who earn more than men, flying out their male admirers (or, more accurately, groupies), to which basketball star Angel Reese responded.
Angel Reese’s Comments
In a recent social media post, Angel Reese made it clear she will not be flying men out. The video, a response to men jokingly asking to be flown out as groupies, showed Reese putting on shades before addressing her fans.
“The delusion that y’all think I’m finna fly any of y’all out… Yeah, that’s all I’m gonna say. Be for real. Thank you,” she said. Reese emphasized that she would not pay for a man or groupie to attend her games.
The post, reposted by a fan page, has received 29 million views.
Fan Commentary
People on social media engaged with the repost of Angel Reese’s video, expressing their personal opinions on the matter.
Many found Reese’s statement hilarious, with numerous women justifying her seemingly dismissive post about spoiling men. Most fans agreed that WNBA players should keep their purses closed in the romantic realm, while some continued to poke fun at the concept.
Some men voiced their disgust and confusion over the double standard, arguing that rich and famous women like Angel Reese should spoil their partners. This viewpoint has gained traction recently as society questions gender roles and the importance of income in dating. The discussion featured a balance of opinions.
A few men expressed their desire to be spoiled, refusing to settle. They even questioned Angel Reese’s income, showing the extent of their thoughts on the matter.