Angel Reese has never been one to back down from a challenge, whether it’s dominating on the court or proving her worth off it. But this time, the Chicago Sky star delivered a victory that had nothing to do with basketball.
That moment arrived in January when she surprised her mother with the ultimate gift: paying off her mortgage. The heartwarming moment unfolded on her podcast, “Unapologetically Angel,” where Reese left her mom in tears with a surprise that had been years in the making.
Angel Reese Paid Off Her Mom’s Mortgage
Back in January, during an episode of her “Unapologetically Angel” podcast, Reese invited her mother on as a guest. But what seemed like a regular conversation quickly turned into an unforgettable moment. As a birthday surprise, Reese dropped the news that would change her mother’s life forever.
“You said if your mortgage was paid off that you would retire,” Reese told her mom. “So your mortgage today has been paid.”
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The news left Reese’s mother in disbelief, overwhelmed by the sheer generosity of her daughter’s gesture. “Are you serious?” she asked, her voice shaking with emotion. The moment was as raw as it was touching, showing just how much this meant to both mother and daughter.
For Reese, this wasn’t just an extravagant gift; it was a goal she had worked toward her entire life.
“That was my biggest goal in life, to retire you and to pay your mortgage,” she said. “Obviously, you’re a hardworking woman, you don’t need me for no money.”
How Reese Was Able To Afford This Life-Changing Gift
While most professional athletes rely on their league salaries for financial security, Reese’s story is different. Despite being one of the most recognizable names in the WNBA, she only has a salary of about $73,439. Instead, Reese’s financial success comes from her lucrative endorsement deals.
In an interview last year, Reese openly acknowledged that her WNBA salary was more of a “bonus” compared to her endorsement earnings. She has signed major deals with Reebok, Beats by Dre, and the Hershey Company for Reese’s Puffs, among others.
Additionally, she also participated in Unrivaled in 2025, an eight-week 3-on-3 league that paid her over $200,000, far exceeding her WNBA earnings.
Reese’s financial empire has grown rapidly. According to multiple reports, she has an estimated net worth of $2 million. However, when asked about that figure at ComplexCon in Las Vegas, Reese quickly dismissed it.
“Is it inaccurate?” host Speedy Morman pressed. “Yeah,” Reese responded bluntly, suggesting that her wealth may be even greater than reported.
Her ability to leverage her name, image, and likeness (NIL) in college helped her establish financial independence early. Between 2022 and 2023, her NIL deals alone were worth an estimated $1.8 million. However, while Reese is thriving financially, she hasn’t ignored the harsh reality for most WNBA players. She has been vocal about the need for higher salaries in the league, demanding better compensation for her peers.
Speaking on “Unapologetically Angel,” she made it clear that players wouldn’t settle for less. Her stance echoes the growing frustration among WNBA athletes, many of whom are forced to play overseas or seek external income sources to make ends meet.
Reese’s story is an example of resilience and smart financial planning. Paying off her mom’s mortgage is just the beginning of what looks to be an inspiring journey both on and off the court.