At 6’3″, Angel Reese commands attention both on and off the basketball court. Known for her dominance as a forward and her bold personality, the Sky No. 5’s towering height is often a source of pride. But as she revealed in a candid moment during her podcast Unapologetically Angel, it also presents challenges that may as well be unique to her in her everyday life.

In a heartfelt conversation with Coco Jones, Reese opened up about feeling out of place when she steps outside. “Yeah, I don’t feel normal. No,” Reese admitted. “Also, I’m 6’3”. So obviously, I already don’t feel normal. So everybody already looking and they’re trying to see who that is.” Her words offer a glimpse into the reality of standing out not just for her talent but for her sheer physical presence.

Reese’s height, while a gift on the court, often draws unwanted attention in public spaces. “I don’t mind taking pictures,” she shared, “but sometimes I just want to like, yeah, sometimes I just want to be able to put on a sweatsuit and like maybe have my hood on, my bonnet on, some glasses, and keep pushing.” But that’s easier said than done. “I can’t do that. It’s like I got to go out the house, clean up tight.”

The constant stares and curiosity from strangers can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about being recognized as a basketball star; it’s the towering frame that makes her impossible to miss in any crowd. Reese’s reflections highlight the double-edged sword of fame and physical distinction—one that brings admiration but also a loss of anonymity.

So, how does Angel Reese navigate the complexities of her star power?

Angel Reese: Finding the balance between fame and privacy

In a moment of vulnerability, during the podcast when Coco Jones asked, “Like, have you ever said no to taking a picture?” Angel Reese responded, “I have. Yeah.” She continued, elaborating on how it feels and stated. “It does make me feel bad, but most of the time I’m in a rush. Like I’m about to, I’m going somewhere.”

Coco, clearly understanding, resonated with her response, “Yeah, that’s real.”

Reese, however, shared a deeper frustration with the situation, “So like, and the people be so mean after they be like, ‘Damn.’ That’s I don’t live for that. But people don’t be understanding. Like, this is like, we can’t always do it.”

The interaction revealed the emotional toll fame can take, especially when people don’t understand that celebrities, just like anyone else, have moments when they want to keep things simple. Reese’s honesty about saying “no” to taking pictures reflects her struggle to find a balance between her public persona and her personal need for space.

As Reese continues to navigate the complexities of fame, her story highlights the need for empathy toward public figures who face similar challenges. While they may seem untouchable from the outside, they too have their limits and moments when they simply want to live life, just like anyone else.