In a moment that sent the entire sports world into a frenzy, WNBA superstar Brittney Griner made a headline-grabbing statement: “The WNBA will surpass the NFL in five years—because of Angel Reese.” The bold claim, made during a recent interview, has lit a fire across fan bases, sparked intense online debates, and stirred both admiration and backlash from across the sporting landscape.
Griner, known for her dominance on the court and her outspoken nature off it, didn’t mince words. “Angel Reese is more than just a player,” she said. “She’s a movement, a brand, a voice, and a game-changer. What she’s doing for this league is what LeBron did for the NBA.”
The comment has taken on a life of its own, with sports media, analysts, and fans weighing in. Many supporters praised Griner’s vision, calling it inspirational and much-needed for a league that has long battled for equal recognition. “It’s about time someone said it out loud,” one fan posted on X. “Angel Reese is electrifying. People tune in for her the way they used to for Allen Iverson. She’s made WNBA cool.”
But not everyone agreed. Critics from the NFL and beyond were quick to dismiss the comparison as unrealistic, citing the NFL’s massive revenues, television deals, and cultural dominance. One analyst called Griner’s statement “wishful thinking at best,” while others warned that such comments might do more harm than good by setting “unrealistic expectations.”
Still, the numbers don’t lie. Since Angel Reese entered the league, the WNBA has seen record-breaking ticket sales, surging viewership, and unprecedented engagement on social media. Her presence has brought in a wave of younger fans and cultural relevance that the league has struggled to achieve in past decades.
Griner emphasized that her statement wasn’t purely about stats or money. “This is about momentum,” she explained. “It’s about visibility, impact, and influence. What Angel Reese represents isn’t just basketball—it’s cultural power. The NFL has tradition, but we have transformation.”
Reese, when asked about Griner’s prediction, humbly responded, “That’s a lot to live up to, but I’m here for it. I’m here to represent, inspire, and change the game.”
Industry insiders are now watching closely. Major brands are lining up endorsement deals, and networks are expanding their WNBA coverage. ESPN analysts have even begun comparing the league’s growth trajectory to that of the early UFC and the NBA in the 1980s.
One thing is certain: whether or not the WNBA overtakes the NFL in five years, Brittney Griner’s statement has forced the world to look differently at women’s basketball. And with Angel Reese leading the charge, a transformation may already be underway.
The future isn’t coming. It’s already here—and it’s wearing a WNBA jersey.
