The undeniable influence and burgeoning popularity of the WNBA were highlighted once again when Jayson Tatum mirrored Angel Reese following the Boston Celtics’ NBA championship victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
The Celtics clinched the series 4-1, sealing their 18th championship title with a commanding 106-88 victory in Game 5. This win propelled them past the Los Angeles Lakers for the most titles in NBA history.
Tatum shone brightly throughout the series, especially in the decisive Game 5, amassing 31 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds. Despite being a strong contender for the MVP award, he was edged out by his teammate Jaylen Brown.
Many fans felt Tatum deserved the MVP, but the 26-year-old was singularly focused on securing the championship. In his post-game interview, he addressed the critics directly.
Speaking to ESPN after the game, Tatum declared: “What they gonna say now? What they gonna say now… what they gonna say now?”
Angel Reese Trends on Social Media
Fans quickly noticed the similarity to how Chicago Sky rookie Reese had famously exclaimed the same phrase after clinching the national championship at LSU in 2023.
In the widely shared video, Reese is seen holding her phone and gripping her new era baseball cap, repeatedly shouting at the camera: “What they gonna say now? What they gonna say now?”
Tatum’s delivery was more composed compared to Reese’s energetic outburst, but the reference was unmistakable, as fans noted on social media.
One user commented: “Not Jayson Tatum channeling Angel Reese,” while another added: “Jayson Tatum honoring Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, and Angel Reese all at once.”
This incident underscores the immense influence of the 22-year-old Reese, even on NBA stars. As the WNBA’s reputation continues to soar, with players like Reese, Caitlin Clark, and Cameron Brink leading the charge, its impact is bound to grow.