Key Highlights
- WNBA standout Angel Reese attended the New Orleans Pelicans matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves to support her younger brother, Julian Reese.
- While seated in the stands, a fan mistakenly called her “Angela Reese,” prompting an immediate, composed correction from the basketball star: “Thanks, but my name is Angel”.
- The interaction, which later went viral after being shared by a New Orleans comedian, highlighted Reese’s continued support for her family’s basketball journey.
Courtside Incident: Angel Reese Corrects Fan at Pelicans Game
WNBA star Angel Reese found herself in the spotlight off the court while attending an NBA matchup between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Reese was present at the arena to support her younger brother, Julian Reese, who is currently signed to the Pelicans organization. During the contest, a spectator in the stands began recording video of her and attempted to grab her attention, mistakenly addressing her as “Angela Reese”.
Without hesitation, Reese addressed the blunder directly. Turning toward the camera, she offered a swift and polite correction: “Thanks, but my name is Angel”. Caught in the error, the fan offered an apology, attributing the slip-up to the tequila he had consumed during the event.
Viral Video Captures Fan Interaction in the Stands
The encounter did not stop at the name correction. The fan followed up with remarks complimenting Reese, who was sporting a distinctive zebra-print outfit for the evening. Attempting to flatter the basketball standout, he said, “You’re the sexiest zebra I’ve seen here,” to which Reese offered a calm “Okay” paired with a smile.
The exchange was subsequently shared on Instagram by a New Orleans comedian, where it rapidly picked up traction across social media platforms. Users widely discussed Reese’s poise and quick response in setting the record straight while maintaining her composure in a public setting.
Family Ties: Julian Reese and the New Orleans Pelicans
Beyond the brief viral moment, the primary purpose of Reese’s visit was family support. Her younger brother, Julian Reese, is on a two-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, having joined the franchise after going undrafted in the 2025 Draft. Although Julian did not see game action in the contest—which concluded in a 115-109 victory for the Minnesota Timberwolves—Angel remained courtside to cheer on his professional journey.
The siblings share a deep connection rooted in their developmental years on the court. Both Angel and Julian Reese played collegiate basketball together at the University of Maryland during the 2021-22 season before their paths diverged into their respective professional pursuits. Both athletes have frequently credited their athletic discipline and passion for the game to their mother, Angel Webb Reese.
Angel Webb Reese carved out her own basketball pedigree, having played college basketball at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) before embarking on a professional career overseas in European leagues, including in Luxembourg. As a single mother following her separation from her husband, she raised Angel and Julian, instilling the foundation that has carried both siblings onto the professional basketball stage.
Why This Matters
As women’s basketball players gain unprecedented cultural prominence and mainstream visibility, high-profile athletes like Angel Reese consistently draw fan attention wherever they appear. Reese’s effortless ability to command respect—ensuring her name and identity are properly recognized even during casual public interactions—demonstrates the expanding platform and brand authority that modern female athletes possess. Additionally, her attendance underscores the ongoing family legacy within the NBA and WNBA landscape, showcasing how maternal mentorship and shared collegiate experiences at programs like Maryland continue to foster top-tier athletic talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Angel Reese attending the Pelicans vs. Timberwolves game?
Angel Reese was in attendance to support her younger brother, Julian Reese, who holds a two-way contract with the New Orleans Pelicans.
What happened during Angel Reese’s interaction with the fan?
A fan recording her called her “Angela Reese,” which she corrected by stating, “Thanks, but my name is Angel”. The fan blamed the mistake on drinking tequila, complimented her zebra-print outfit, and Reese concluded the brief exchange with an “Okay” and a smile.
Did Julian Reese play in the game against Minnesota?
No, Julian Reese did not participate in the game, which resulted in a 115-109 win for the Minnesota Timberwolves over the New Orleans Pelicans.
