No One Saw This Coming: Angel Reese’s All-Star Vote Count Shakes Up the WNBA

Sometimes in sports, certain moments and achievements defy expectations in ways few predict. Angel Reese, the rising star of the Chicago Sky, has not only amassed an impressive number of votes for the WNBA All-Star Game but has gone far beyond what many fans and analysts anticipated. Rather than just being a popular name on ballots, Reese has firmly established herself among the elite in the league.

As of June 8, 2025, over half a million fans have cast their votes for this sensational rookie, catapulting her to one of the highest vote totals across the entire WNBA. The exact figure? An astounding 506,741 votes.

To put this into perspective, only nine players in the league have ever surpassed the half-million vote mark — a milestone that many athletes only dream of reaching. Angel Reese has transcended beyond just recognition; she has become a central figure in the ongoing conversation about the future of women’s basketball.

While Caitlin Clark, Reese’s contemporary and fierce competitor, leads the pack with a staggering 1.29 million votes, Reese has carved out her own significant space in the narrative. Clark’s numbers almost triple Reese’s, yet the sheer volume of Reese’s support has grabbed the attention of fans and critics alike.

Controversy Over Reese’s Ranking Sparks Outrage

Despite the massive fan backing, Reese has faced notable pushback from within the WNBA media and even from fellow players. The official rankings placed her 12th among forwards, a significant drop compared to her standing in fan votes where she sits fifth — trailing only Napheesa Collier, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Aliyah Boston. This disparity has stirred frustration among her supporters.

Her weighted score for selection stands at 7.75, tying her with Kiki Iriafen, which ultimately left Reese out of the starting lineup for the All-Star Game. The numbers clearly show the divide between public opinion and insider rankings.

The reaction online was swift and vocal. Fans took to social platforms to express disappointment and disbelief at the rankings. One user on X remarked, “Angel Reese’s fans must be devastated — after all the criticism, both media and player votes placed her 12th. Based on current form, she’s a top 5 talent. I personally rank her 4th behind Boston, Collier, and Wilson — and I’m usually a tough critic.”

Another commenter questioned the integrity of the entire voting process, “Having Kiki ahead of Angel Reese and Aliyah Boston is pure fantasy.”

Some fans were even more blunt, “Angel Reese will never be the WNBA MVP, and neither will Caitlin Clark. Not because they aren’t deserving, but because they don’t get the votes. Even though it’s clear Angel should be MVP. She’s playing at another level now, and I’m giving her props.”

Despite the Controversy, Reese Is Almost Certainly an All-Star

Despite the heated debate, it’s nearly guaranteed Reese will secure a spot on the All-Star team as a reserve. With her form climbing steadily and unmatched energy on the court, it’s clear the fans’ faith in her remains unshaken.

What remains to be seen, however, is whether her peers and media representatives will come around to fully recognizing her impact. That is an ongoing storyline worth watching as the season progresses.

The Phenomenal Rise of Angel Reese

Angel Reese’s journey to becoming a fan favorite and a major WNBA star has been rapid and remarkable. As a forward for the Chicago Sky, she has consistently delivered top-notch performances, earning her comparisons with some of the league’s greatest. Her ability to dominate rebounds and contribute points and assists has made her an indispensable part of the team’s efforts.

This season, Reese has maintained a high average of points and rebounds per game, showcasing her versatility and relentless work ethic. She’s quickly turned into a household name among WNBA fans and is now widely regarded as one of the most exciting players to watch.

Her growing popularity among the fanbase is reflected in the massive voting numbers, which underscore the connection she has built with supporters.

The Divide Between Fans and Insider Rankings

The disconnect between fan votes and official rankings is a recurring theme in professional sports, and the WNBA is no exception. While fans may vote based on emotional attachment, excitement, or recent performances, media members and players might weigh career achievements, consistency, and team impact differently.

In Reese’s case, this divide has become particularly stark. Her ranking at 12th among forwards by insiders contrasts sharply with her top-five fan vote status. This gap raises questions about the criteria used for selections and whether the current system adequately reflects emerging talent.

Many fans feel this system is outdated and doesn’t reward players like Reese who are redefining the game. The social media backlash suggests growing frustration and demands for change.

Fan Reactions and the Growing Buzz

The intensity of fan responses highlights just how much Angel Reese means to the community. The passionate debates and discussions online indicate that many see her as a symbol of the new wave of WNBA talent poised to dominate the league in the years to come.

Supporters have praised her on-court performances, her charismatic personality, and her ability to draw attention to women’s basketball. For many, Reese embodies the future of the sport.

These discussions aren’t just limited to casual fans — even some analysts and former players have weighed in, acknowledging Reese’s rapid ascent and the possibility that she could become one of the best ever.

Looking Ahead: Will Reese’s Recognition Catch Up?

As the WNBA season continues, much attention will be on how Angel Reese’s career develops. Will the media and her peers adjust their evaluations to match the enthusiasm of the fanbase? Can she continue to perform at a high level, silencing critics and proving herself indispensable?

The All-Star Game will provide a platform to showcase her talent among the league’s best, potentially shifting perceptions and earning her greater respect.

Moreover, as the WNBA evolves and more new stars emerge, Reese’s role could become even more pivotal in shaping the league’s identity and fan engagement.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s remarkable vote count for the WNBA All-Star Game has revealed much more than just numbers. It has exposed a divide between fan passion and insider opinion, sparked vibrant discussions about player recognition, and positioned Reese as one of the most talked-about figures in women’s basketball today.

With over half a million votes and growing support, Reese is no longer just a promising rookie — she is a transformative player whose influence reaches far beyond the court. Whether or not the insiders fully acknowledge her just yet, the fans have made their voice clear: Angel Reese is a WNBA superstar in the making