Allen Iverson Sees Himself in Angel Reese: “She’s Got That Fire”

Allen Iverson, the Hall of Fame guard and one of the most influential figures in basketball history, has long been known for identifying greatness where others see only controversy. And in rising WNBA star Angel Reese, he sees something personal—something familiar.

“She reminds me of me,” Iverson said during a recent interview on The Players’ Lounge podcast. “That edge, that attitude, that fight she brings every night… it’s what I used to bring every time I stepped on the floor. She’s got that fire.”

A Legend Recognizes a Rising Star

Iverson, known for his fearless demeanor, signature crossover, and unfiltered authenticity, carved out a legendary NBA career by defying expectations. Standing only six feet tall and weighing in at just 165 pounds, he was often underestimated—until he stepped on the hardwood and took over games with his speed, toughness, and swagger.

Angel Reese, currently in her rookie season with the Chicago Sky, has brought that same kind of energy to the WNBA. In just a few short months, she’s become one of the most talked-about players in the league—not only for her performance but for the polarizing way she carries herself on and off the court.

“She walks out there like she owns it,” Iverson said. “People hate that confidence sometimes. But that’s how you survive when the world’s trying to tear you down. I’ve lived that life.”

From Underdog to Unstoppable

Reese’s journey has mirrored Iverson’s in many ways. Despite being one of the most dominant college players at LSU—leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2023—Reese was heavily scrutinized for her attitude, her trash talk, and her unapologetic confidence. Sound familiar?

Iverson remembers when he was criticized for his tattoos, his baggy clothes, his cornrows—all of which, at the time, were considered unprofessional or rebellious.

“They tried to tell me how to talk, how to dress, how to act,” Iverson said. “Same thing they’re doing to her. But the truth is, if you play with heart and back it up with results, that’s all that matters.”

Reese has certainly been backing it up. She leads all WNBA rookies in rebounds, double-doubles, and hustle stats. Her physical style of play has helped turn the struggling Chicago Sky into one of the league’s most exciting young teams.

“She’s earning her respect the hard way,” Iverson said. “Just like I did.”

A Culture Shifter in Real Time

To Iverson, Reese represents more than just a talented young athlete—she’s a cultural force. One that challenges norms, sparks conversation, and changes the way people see women’s basketball.

“Every generation needs someone to shake things up,” Iverson said. “Angel’s doing that. Just like I did back then. I didn’t fit the mold. Neither does she. And that’s exactly why she matters.”

Iverson believes Reese’s influence could help elevate women’s basketball to new heights, much like his own impact on the NBA in the early 2000s.

“When people start arguing about you on TV, debating your every move—that means you’re relevant,” he added. “She’s not just a player. She’s a movement.”

The Double Standard

Iverson didn’t shy away from addressing the double standards Reese has faced. From post-game taunts to unapologetic celebrations, Reese has often been judged more harshly than her male counterparts.

“If she were a dude doing the same stuff, they’d call it passion,” Iverson said. “But because she’s a woman—especially a confident Black woman—they call it attitude. That’s the problem. That’s what needs to change.”

He also pointed to the way media coverage can swing wildly depending on narrative.

“When Caitlin Clark talks trash, she’s a competitor. When Angel does it, she’s ‘classless’? Come on, man. Let’s be real.”

Reese Responds

Reese has spoken openly about being inspired by Iverson. In a previous interview, she said: “He never let people change who he was. That’s why I looked up to him. He was real from the start.”

When told about that, Iverson’s response was heartfelt.

“That’s the highest compliment,” he said. “I wasn’t perfect, but I stayed true. If she’s using that to stay true to herself, I feel like I’ve done something right.”

Looking Ahead

While Reese’s career is just getting started, Iverson is confident she’ll only get better—and louder.

“She’s gonna have her ups and downs, like we all do,” he said. “But as long as she stays hungry and keeps being herself, she’s gonna be a legend. Trust me.”

He even joked about wanting courtside seats when the Sky come to Philly.

“I need to see her up close. That’s family.”