“Rebounds? Nah, Mebounds”: Angel Reese Moves to Trademark Her Signature Phrase, Teasing Potential Apparel Line

Angel Reese isn’t just rebounding on the court — she’s rebounding into the world of business, branding, and fashion.

The WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist, often referred to as “Bayou Barbie,” has taken another bold step to build her personal empire. Reese and her team have officially filed a trademark application for the phrase “Rebounds? Nah, Mebounds” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The filing, submitted under the goods and services category, hints at the development of a potential fashion or merchandise line centered around the catchy slogan.

A Catchphrase Born on the Court

The phrase “Rebounds? Nah, Mebounds” has been making waves on social media, particularly among Angel Reese’s fans, ever since she first dropped it during a post-game interview earlier this season. The play on words — replacing the team-focused “rebounds” with the self-assured “mebounds” — is a perfect encapsulation of Reese’s unapologetic confidence and individuality.

Critics might call it cocky. Fans call it iconic.

Now, it looks like Reese is ready to turn that viral moment into a business opportunity.

Trademark Filing Details

According to public records available on the USPTO database, the trademark application covers a variety of goods and services — with apparel listed as a primary focus. That means if the trademark is approved, we could soon be seeing t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and other merchandise sporting the “Mebounds” logo on shelves or online.

Legal experts say the application is strategic. “By securing rights to this phrase, Reese is establishing a commercial identity that can grow with her brand, both during and beyond her basketball career,” said sports trademark attorney Lucas Bennett.

The filing falls in line with the growing trend of athletes — especially women in the WNBA — leveraging their name, image, and likeness (NIL) to build independent businesses and strengthen their public personas.

From Athlete to Entrepreneur

Reese’s business acumen is no surprise to anyone who’s followed her rise. Even before she went pro, she was among the most marketable athletes in the NCAA, inking NIL deals with brands like Coach, Amazon, and McDonald’s. Since joining the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, she’s only expanded her influence — both on the hardwood and off.

The move to trademark “Mebounds” signals a shift from influencer to entrepreneur. Rather than simply partnering with existing brands, Reese is now positioning herself to create and own her own.

“She’s always understood the importance of controlling her brand,” said sports marketing analyst Deirdre Winston. “This is the next logical step — creating intellectual property that is distinctly hers.”

Setting a New Standard in the WNBA

Historically, female athletes haven’t always received the same level of recognition or commercial opportunity as their male counterparts. But Reese is helping to shift that narrative. Alongside fellow stars like Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson, she’s part of a new generation of WNBA players who are redefining what it means to be a sports star in 2025 — bold, vocal, and business-savvy.

“This isn’t just about a t-shirt slogan,” Winston added. “It’s about ownership. It’s about building generational wealth. It’s about sending a message to young girls watching: you can be both the talent and the boss.”

What Could the “Mebounds” Brand Look Like?

While no official merchandise has been released yet, fans are already buzzing with speculation. Fan accounts have mockups of varsity jackets, basketball-themed crop tops, and even makeup accessories with the “Mebounds” logo.

Given Reese’s signature glam style — bold lashes, sleek hair, and statement fits — a fashion-forward, unapologetically feminine line would be perfectly on-brand. Whether it’s streetwear, athletic wear, or a blend of both, one thing is clear: Reese knows her audience.

And her audience is ready to buy.

Fan Reaction: “She’s That Girl”

Social media exploded when news of the trademark application surfaced. On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote: “MEB0UNDS?! Nah she’s a marketing genius.”

Another added, “Angel Reese turning every highlight into a business move — I’m here for it.”

Some fans are even pushing for the WNBA to support player-owned brands more aggressively. “Imagine going to a Sky game and buying official ‘Mebounds’ merch in the arena,” one post read. “Run it UP.”

What’s Next?

Now that the application has been filed, it may take months before a final decision is made by the USPTO. In the meantime, Reese can still begin developing the brand behind the scenes and begin limited product drops.

Legal experts say the likelihood of approval is high — especially since the phrase is original, tied directly to Reese’s persona, and already has strong public recognition.

Reese has not yet commented directly on the trademark news, but her recent Instagram post — a mirror selfie captioned “mebounds energy only” — seems to confirm the direction she’s heading.

Conclusion

Angel Reese is proving that her talents extend far beyond basketball. With the trademark filing of “Rebounds? Nah, Mebounds,” she’s not just playing the game — she’s changing it. Confident, entrepreneurial, and culturally influential, Reese is creating a playbook for the next generation of athletes who want to dominate the scoreboard and the boardroom.

As the WNBA continues to grow in visibility and influence, stars like Reese are ensuring it’s not just about the points — it’s about power, presence, and ownership.