At a recent event, Angel Reese made a bold claim that sent shockwaves through the basketball world. When asked which NBA legend her game most closely resembles, she didn’t hesitate. Her answer? Michael Jordan.
“I modeled my game after him as a kid,” Reese said confidently. “I used to mimic everything he did on the court, both offensively and defensively. We’re very similar players.”
The statement immediately sparked debate and reaction from fans, analysts, and fellow athletes. Comparing oneself to the greatest basketball player of all time is no small claim, but Reese stood by it.
Breaking Down Reese’s Jordan Comparison
Reese has built a reputation as one of the most physical and dominant players in women’s basketball. She thrives in the paint, using her size, strength, and relentless effort to control games. But does that truly make her a modern-day Michael Jordan?
Jordan was one of the best two-way players in NBA history, winning Defensive Player of the Year and making nine All-Defensive First Teams. He was known for his lockdown defense, quick hands, and ability to shut down the best scorers in the league.
Reese also takes pride in her defensive presence, particularly her ability to grab rebounds, block shots, and intimidate opponents in the paint. However, her defense is more interior-based, while Jordan excelled on the perimeter.
Even Reese acknowledged this difference: “He’s a slightly better shooter, and I’ll give him the edge on defense.”
One area where Reese feels she has an advantage over Jordan is her paint dominance.
“There’s no debate about who dominates in the paint,” Reese said. “When we met, he told me I remind him of a younger version of himself.”
While Jordan was a lethal scorer in the post, his game was more focused on mid-range jumpers, footwork, and finishing around the rim. Reese, on the other hand, is a true force in the low post, using her size and strength to overpower defenders.
It’s hard to compare their scoring styles, as Jordan was a creative finisher who relied on athleticism and skill, while Reese is a power player who dominates through rebounding and second-chance points.
One undeniable similarity between the two is their confidence and competitive fire.
Jordan was known for his killer instinct, trash talk, and unshakable self-belief. He demanded the best from himself and his teammates, refusing to accept anything less than greatness.
Reese, too, has shown incredible confidence and mental toughness throughout her career. She embraces the villain role, feeds off criticism, and isn’t afraid to call out doubters. Like Jordan, she plays with a chip on her shoulder and uses it as motivation.
Fan Reactions & Debate
Naturally, Reese’s comments caused a stir among basketball fans. Some applauded her confidence, while others laughed off the comparison.
“I love the confidence, but let’s be real—she’s not Jordan.”
“Reese does dominate in her own way, but she’s more like Dennis Rodman than MJ.”
“The fact that she believes in herself this much is why she’s successful.”
While some may see her comments as bold or exaggerated, there’s no denying that Reese believes in herself the way Jordan did.
Final Thoughts – Is Reese the “Michael Jordan” of Women’s Basketball?
While Angel Reese and Michael Jordan are very different players, they do share some key similarities: Competitive fire, Defensive presence, Strong leadership qualities, Ability to dominate in their own way
However, it’s hard to compare their games directly, as Jordan was a scoring machine with elite defense, while Reese is a physical enforcer who controls the paint.
At the end of the day, Reese isn’t afraid to dream big—and that’s exactly what makes her one of the most exciting and confident players in the game today.
Whether or not she’s truly like Jordan, one thing is for sure: she’s writing her own legacy.