No one quite expected this—well, maybe some did, but not quite like this. Angel Reese didn’t just rack up votes for the WNBA All-Star roster; she went far beyond what fans imagined and cracked the elite ranks.

Top Plays of the Day, 7/29/2025

Over half a million fans cast their ballots for the Chicago Sky rookie, earning her one of the highest total vote counts in the league. The number? A staggering 506,741 votes.

To put that in perspective, only nine players in the entire WNBA crossed the half-million mark this year. That’s a rare club most players only dream about. Reese is no longer just a name people talk about casually; she has become a major talking point. While Caitlin Clark dominated with an eye-popping 1.29 million votes, Reese carved out her own spotlight.

Sure, Clark’s votes are nearly triple Reese’s, but Reese’s tally still demands attention and respect.

Angel Reese’s Ranking Sparks Outrage Among Fans

Angel Reese (Photo by Kamil Krzaczynski – Imagn Images)

Despite being a fan favorite, Reese faces barriers with the WNBA media and fellow players alike. Both groups ranked her just 12th among forwards—a significant drop from the fan vote, where she stands fifth, trailing only Napheesa Collier, A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Aliyah Boston.

The numbers don’t lie. Her weighted score was 7.75, tied with Kiki Iriafen, which ultimately kept Reese off the starting lineup.

This gap between fan enthusiasm and official recognition has stirred up frustration online.

Online Fans Voice Their Discontent Loudly

“Angel Reese’s fans must be devastated—after all the criticism, both media and players placed her 12th,” wrote one user on X. “With her current form, she belongs in the top 5. I personally rank her fourth, right behind Boston, Collier, and Wilson. And trust me, I’m a harsh critic.”

Another questioned the whole voting system. “Kiki ranked ahead of Angel Reese and Aliyah Boston? That’s pure fantasy.”

Yet another fan was more blunt: “Angel Reese will never be WNBA MVP, and Caitlin Clark won’t either. Not because they don’t deserve it, but simply because they don’t get the votes. Even though it’s clear Angel should be MVP. She’s been playing better, and I acknowledge that.”

A Likely All-Star Appearance, But Not Without Controversy

Despite the criticism, Reese will almost certainly be named an All-Star reserve. With her rising stats and unmatched energy, it’s clear the fans haven’t lost faith. Whether her peers will come around to the same view is a different story.

The voting controversy highlights a broader tension in women’s basketball between fan passion and institutional recognition. Reese, a fierce competitor, embodies that struggle perfectly—beloved by fans for her intensity and skills but seemingly underappreciated by the official voting bodies.

A Rookie Season That’s Turning Heads

Angel Reese’s rookie year with Chicago Sky has been nothing short of impressive. Her ability to dominate rebounds and deliver clutch plays has made her an essential part of the team’s growing success. The 506,741 votes underscore the impact she’s made not only on the court but in the hearts of WNBA fans nationwide.

Her presence in the All-Star conversation isn’t just a fluke; it’s a testament to her hard work, determination, and growing stardom.

Caitlin Clark: The Unmatched Voting Leader

Of course, Caitlin Clark’s 1.29 million votes remain the benchmark, showcasing her immense popularity and talent. Clark has been the face of the league and a catalyst for raising the WNBA’s profile to new heights.

Reese, while trailing behind Clark, is the rising star who’s carving out her own legacy. The comparison between the two highlights the new generation of talent reshaping women’s basketball.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

For Angel Reese, the road ahead is full of challenges. The disconnect between fan votes and official rankings may prove frustrating, but it also shines a light on the importance of recognition beyond the court.

As the season progresses, Reese’s performance will be under intense scrutiny, and her ability to silence doubters will be crucial. With her energy and determination, she’s more than capable of proving she belongs in the top tier.

What This Means for the WNBA

Angel Reese’s voting saga raises important questions about how the league values its players. Is there a disconnect between fan passion and how players are rated by media and peers? And if so, what does that mean for the future of the sport?

The WNBA is growing, and stars like Reese and Clark are leading the charge. Fans want to see their heroes celebrated, not sidelined by politics or tradition. The league’s voting system might need to evolve to reflect that.

Conclusion: The Fans Have Spoken, But Will the WNBA Listen?

Angel Reese’s remarkable vote total has sparked both admiration and controversy. She’s a symbol of a new era in the WNBA—one where fan voices matter, but institutional recognition sometimes lags behind.

With her undeniable talent and growing fanbase, Reese is poised to become one of the game’s most important figures. The question remains: will the WNBA fully embrace her, or will she continue to face uphill battles off the court?

Either way, one thing is clear—Angel Reese’s star is shining brighter than ever.