Crowning Glory: Angel Reese Makes History with Third Straight “Sportswoman of the Year” Win at BET Awards — The Bayou Barbie’s Reign Continues as She Redefines Greatness On and Off the Court
Los Angeles, CA – The lights were bright, the stage was set, and the applause was thunderous as Angel Reese, affectionately known to fans as the “Bayou Barbie,” cemented her place in sports and cultural history. At the 2025 BET Awards, Reese was crowned “Sportswoman of the Year” for the third consecutive time, becoming the first athlete in the award’s history to achieve the three-peat—a testament to her talent, impact, and unapologetic presence on and off the court.
From electrifying fans with her powerhouse performances to standing firm as a vocal advocate for Black women in sports, Reese’s rise is more than athletic excellence—it’s a cultural phenomenon.
Reese first captured the public’s imagination during LSU’s historic 2023 NCAA championship run, where her dominance, swagger, and confidence shook up traditional notions of women’s college basketball. But it wasn’t just her stats that turned heads—it was her boldness, personality, and authenticity that sparked conversations across the nation.
Since then, the 6’3″ forward has evolved into more than a basketball player—she’s a brand, a role model, and a media force. From NIL deals with major fashion and sports brands to speaking engagements on athlete empowerment, Angel Reese has become a beacon of visibility and representation for young Black girls everywhere.
And now, her third BET “Sportswoman of the Year” award proves that her influence extends far beyond the hardwood.
Draped in a shimmering designer gown and radiating confidence as she accepted the award, Reese delivered a heartfelt message:
“This isn’t just for me. This is for every Black girl who was ever told she was ‘too much’ — too confident, too bold, too loud. Keep being all that and more. We are rewriting what greatness looks like.”
The crowd erupted. Social media followed suit, with the hashtag #BayouBarbie trending within minutes.
What sets Angel Reese apart isn’t just her rebounding prowess or scoring finesse—it’s her refusal to shrink herself to fit into outdated molds. Whether sparking viral debates with her iconic “you can’t see me” gesture or using her platform to speak on mental health and double standards in sports, she continues to challenge stereotypes and elevate the game.
In an era where athletes are expected to do more than play, Reese stands as an example of what it means to use your spotlight to uplift and inspire. She is Black excellence in motion—fierce, fashionable, and fearless.
Now entering her WNBA career with the Chicago Sky, Reese shows no signs of slowing down. Her rookie season has already drawn major media attention, and her performances are proving that the hype is well-earned. Whether crashing the boards or captivating cameras, Angel Reese is building a brand that bridges generations.
And if her third BET award is any indication, the world is watching—and cheering.
