Overview

• At the 2025 BET Awards in Arlington, Texas on June 10, Reese became the second athlete after Serena Williams to win Sportswoman of the Year three years running.
• Jalen Hurts was named Sportsman of the Year at the same ceremony, a pairing that drew criticism from fans comparing their respective career achievements.
• Reese topped a star-studded nominee list that included Simone Biles, three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, Olympic boxing champion Claressa Shields, and track athlete Sha’Carri Richardson.
• Social media users questioned the validity of Reese’s win over more accomplished competitors, and Claressa Shields publicly voiced her surprise on X.
• Her selection was underpinned by leading the WNBA in rebounds last season with an average of 13.1 boards per game and compiling 30 career double-doubles in just 42 games.