Not LeBron, not MJ! Angel Reese gives unexpected ‘GOAT’ answer

Angel Reese reveals her unconventional pick for the NBA's greatest, defying the usual Michael Jordan versus LeBron James GOAT conversation.

Not LeBron, not MJ! Angel Reese gives unexpected ‘GOAT’ answer

Angel Reese reveals NBA GOAT and it's not LeBron James or Michael Jordan

The “GOAT” debate is one of sports’ most contentious conversations. Most fans automatically name Michael Jordan or LeBron James when discussing basketball’s greatest of all time. However, WNBA star Angel Reese, currently playing for the Chicago Sky, surprised everyone with her unconventional pick.

Angel Reese recently made an appearance on 10 Burning Questions with Sports Illustrated, answering questions during the segment. Reese, known for her confidence on and off the court, was asked who she considers the NBA’s greatest player. Her response?

Of all time? Oh, my God. I’mma say Shaq.

Angel Reese revealed on the show
YouTube video

Shaquille O’Neal is not often the first name to come up in these debates. Angel Reese’s choice of Shaq as her GOAT may have raised eyebrows, but it is far from unfounded.

FS Video

O’Neal is a four-time NBA champion and widely regarded as one of the most dominant players in basketball history. He revolutionized the center position with his combination of size, power, and athleticism.

Interestingly, Reese’s decision may have also been influenced by personal connections. Shaquille O’Neal is her ‘uncle’ and business mentor, making her choice a lot more understandable. While Reese is aware that her pick may not align with the conventional MJ-versus-LeBron discussion, it definitely shows the respect she has for Uncle Shaq’s impact on the game.

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WNBA announces latest edition to Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese Rivalry

The WNBA is banking on rivalries to propel the league into its next phase of popularity, and there is no rivalry more compelling than that of Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. After a record-setting 2024 season, the league announced that the Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever will face off five times during the 2025 season, starting with a much-anticipated opener on May 17.

The Reese-Clark rivalry has already delivered numerous memorable moments, with Clark’s scoring wizardry clashing against Reese’s defensive grit and rebounding prowess. Last season, Caitlin Clark averaged 20.5 points, 10 assists, and 6.5 rebounds against Angel Reese’s Sky, while Reese put up 13.5 points and an eye-popping 13.3 rebounds per game.

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During the offseason, both superstars have revealed their respect for each other even though many fans have tried to portray a sense of disdain between the two. However, by deciding to lean into matchups like these, the WNBA hopes to attract new fans and build a foundation for sustained success.