Angel Reese Becomes First Black WNBA Player Honored With Barbie Doll

The doll, which debuted during All-Star Weekend at the TOGETHXR House in Chicago, features Reese in pink attire with matching basketball accessories. The launch includes a partnership with Reebok, which will release a corresponding AR1 sneaker in a matching Barbie-inspired colorway. These sneakers, arriving in early August 2026, aim to mirror the athlete's on-court performance and off-court fashion influence.

Nathan Baynard, Vice President and Head of Barbie at Mattel, stated the collaboration highlights Reese’s role as an advocate for girls and her leadership in both sports and business. For Reese, the project represents a significant personal milestone. She described the process as surreal, noting that the doll captures both her athletic intensity and her personal style. The collaboration also signals a broader shift in the sports industry, as Reese continues to expand her influence as an owner within the media company TOGETHXR.