Angel Reese Deletes Instagram After New Year’s Eve Outfit Sparks Controversy: A Deeper Look

Rising basketball star Angel Reese found herself at the center of a social media storm this New Year’s Eve, but not for her on-court achievements. Instead, it was her daring outfit choice that set the internet ablaze, drawing mixed reactions and eventually leading to Reese deactivating her Instagram account.

On December 31, Reese shared a bold look—a mocha-colored animal print gown with a plunging neckline, a thigh-high slit, and midsection cutouts. The outfit, daring by any standard, was a showstopper. While some fans applauded her confidence and style, others were less than impressed, accusing the LSU star of seeking attention in ways unbecoming of an athlete.

Critics argued that Reese’s fashion choice overshadowed her basketball career, with many questioning her priorities. The backlash was swift, and by January 3, her Instagram account, which boasted millions of followers, had disappeared entirely.

The internet reaction was polarizing. Supporters flooded her post with fire emojis and compliments, calling her “iconic” and a “queen.” Meanwhile, detractors accused her of prioritizing social media fame over her athletic career.

One critical voice questioned, “Is she even working on her game anymore?” Others pointed out the double standard female athletes often face, where their personal lives and appearances become fodder for public scrutiny.

Deleting her Instagram—a primary platform for engaging with fans and sponsors—was a bold move for Reese. Social media is more than just a personal outlet for athletes; it’s a key revenue stream and brand-building tool. Her decision sparked further speculation: Was she retreating from the backlash or attempting to refocus ahead of the upcoming basketball season?

Some fans theorized that Reese might be stepping away to concentrate on her game, especially with the highly anticipated Unrivaled League event on January 17, 2025. However, others saw it as a sign of impulsivity and poor judgment.

This latest controversy reignited comparisons between Reese and fellow basketball star Caitlin Clark. While Reese has embraced her celebrity status with a bold public persona, Clark has maintained a quieter, game-focused image.

Clark’s accolades, including multiple awards and records, stand in stark contrast to Reese’s headline-grabbing antics. Critics argue that Reese’s off-court decisions may be undermining her legacy as an athlete, especially when compared to Clark’s steady rise as a basketball powerhouse.

Reese’s decision to delete her Instagram raises questions about her future both on and off the court. Will she return with a renewed focus on basketball, or will her next move continue to stir controversy?

For now, her silence leaves fans and critics alike guessing. One thing is certain: Angel Reese knows how to keep the spotlight on her, whether she’s on the court or off.

As the drama unfolds, Reese’s next steps could redefine her career—or cement her reputation as a polarizing figure in the world of sports. Whatever the outcome, all eyes remain on her.

Why Did Angel Reese Delete Her Instagram? NYE Outfit Controversy Explained

Photo by Cindy Ord/WireImage via Getty Images

Angel Reese’s recent decision to delete her Instagram account has left fans questioning the reason behind the seemingly sudden decision. The move comes after the WNBA star faced backlash over her bold New Year’s Eve outfit, which sparked both praise and criticism online. With her Instagram account no longer accessible, many are left wondering what led to this choice.

Here’s everything fans need to know about Angel Reese’s NYE outfit controversy.

Angel Reese deletes Instagram account after NYE outfit controversy

Angel Reese has left fans puzzled after deleting her Instagram account following backlash over her New Year’s Eve outfit. The 22-year-old WNBA star’s social media handle, @angelreese5, suddenly became unavailable, with a message stating that the page may have been removed. While her Instagram account disappeared, Reese’s TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) accounts remained active, leaving many fans wondering what led to the unexpected deactivation.

Reese’s controversial outfit, which featured an animal print cut-out dress, caught significant attention. The dress, which had a plunging midsection and high leg slit, showcased her daring fashion sense. In the videos she posted before ringing in 2025, Reese appeared stunning in the mocha-colored gown. While some fans applauded her bold look, others criticized her outfit. Some accused her of wearing it for attention and inviting sexualized comments. The harsh feedback seemed to culminate in Reese’s decision to remove her Instagram presence.

The backlash came after a successful 2024 for the Chicago Sky forward, who is set to play in the new Unrivaled League in Miami. Reese has shared her aspirations for the future, including becoming a billionaire and achieving long-term goals. Last week, she posted a video showing her vision board for the year, highlighting her ambition. Despite the criticism, Reese remains focused on her goals, including plans to become a homeowner soon. Fans continue to rally behind her, with many expressing concern over the negativity she faced after her outfit choice.