Angel Reese’s Next Big Win? Her Own McDonald’s Meal—And A Legacy That’s Bigger Than Basketball

Beyond the basketball court, Angel Reese is a style icon, philanthropist, investor, podcast host, and perhaps most importantly, a role model. Today, she adds another accolade to her list: the first female athlete to have her own McDonald's meal, a milestone that speaks to her growing influence beyond basketball.

The Angel Reese Special, a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder® with Cheese and fries (with a Hi-C, if you want the true Angel Reese experience), is more than just her go-to order: It’s a full-circle moment for the former McDonald’s All American who grew up grabbing a McChicken® Sandwich after practices and games. “I always made sure I had my McDonald’s money,” she says.

But this collaboration is about more than just food. It sends a powerful message to young girls: these spaces belong to them too—whether on the court, in business, or anywhere they aspire to be. She understands firsthand how important representation is, recalling the impact of watching Lisa Leslie play. “She always had her edges laid and lashes on, but was also a dog on the court.” Seeing Leslie dominate with both skill and style showed Reese that power and femininity aren’t mutually exclusive.

Today, Reese embodies that same duality. Dubbed the Bayou Barbie, she seamlessly blends confidence, style, and dominance on the court. Her relationship with Leslie has evolved from idol to mentor, and Reese is paying that same energy forward. In 2023, she launched The Angel C. Reese Foundation, dedicated to empowering girls through sports, education, financial literacy, and more.

When young fans approach her for guidance, she speaks from experience. "The best way to succeed is to put in the work and believe in yourself, even when others doubt you," she advises. It's this combination of hard work and unapologetic authenticity that has become her calling card.

Looking ahead, Reese's vision for her legacy is clear: "I want to be known as someone who worked hard, made an impact in the culture, and created new lanes for others to shine," she says. "I want young girls to realize they never need to be placed in a box and can pursue whatever their dream may be."

For me, we didn’t eat out a ton as kids, so it was a special treat for when you played really well in a game or got a particularly good grade. What was your relationship with the Golden Arches growing up?

I’ve always been a fan of McDonald’s. When I was little, I loved going to McDonald’s after practice or a game and I always made sure I had my McDonald’s money. I was also a McDonald’s All-American my senior year of high school, so The Angel Reese Special is a full-circle moment for me.

Your Angel Reese Special is a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder with Cheese®. Has that always been the order? What’s your go-to drink?

A QPC, fries, and Hi-C is my go-to McDonald’s order. That’s why it was such a great experience working with the McDonald’s team to add a personal touch to my favorite meal.

You’re the first female athlete to activate in this way with McDonald's, which one could use to draw a parallel to your participation in the new Unrivaled league.

What do you think it means for young women–particularly young women of color– to be able to walk into spaces like McDonalds or turn on the TV and see themselves marketed to and represented?

It’s really important to me. I remember growing up, I looked up to women like Lisa Leslie, and I’m grateful to now have a platform and the opportunity to inspire young girls too. That’s why I created my foundation, The Angel C Reese Foundation, to help young girls and the next generation achieve their dreams.

One of my earliest memories is of being six, seeing Michelle Kwan win a Silver medal in the Olympics, and just being obsessed with her; every school project was about her. I didn’t even care about figure skating, but I wanted to be her so badly. It didn’t click for me until many years later that it was because it was the first time I was ever seeing myself (as an Asian-American woman) represented and revered on a global stage.

Do you have a similar memory of an athlete that you aspired to be at a young age?

I know I just said it, but Lisa Leslie was one of my biggest heroes growing up. I remember watching her play and she always had her edges laid and lashes on, but was also a dog on the court. I’ve been so lucky to have a relationship with Lisa now and she’s been an incredible mentor.

When you meet young fans, and they ask for advice, what do you say?

The best way to succeed is to put in the work and stay true to yourself. Be unapologetically you!

What do you want your legacy to be?

I want to be known as someone who worked hard, made an impact in the culture, created new lanes for others to shine, and inspired the next generation of young girls. I want the next generation to realize they never need to be placed in a box and can pursue whatever their dream may be.