In an unexpected move that left both the tech and sports worlds in shock, Elon Musk reportedly offered basketball sensation Angel Reese a staggering $100 million to become the face of Tesla’s much-hyped Cybertruck campaign. But in a twist no one saw coming, Reese’s reaction to the offer stunned the world—and could change the face of celebrity endorsements forever.
The proposal came just days after Musk teased on X (formerly Twitter) that Tesla would be partnering with a “rising cultural icon” to reach Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences. Speculation ran wild, with names like Zendaya, Bad Bunny, and even Lionel Messi being floated. But when the announcement broke that Musk had tapped Angel Reese, the fierce and unapologetic star of the Chicago Sky, jaws dropped.
The deal was rumored to include TV commercials, exclusive online content, personal appearances, and even a signature “Reese Edition” of the Cybertruck featuring bold, custom designs inspired by her personality and career. Reese, whose personal brand centers around empowerment, style, and authenticity, was reportedly a dream pick for Tesla’s edgy new direction. But instead of celebrating the deal, Reese threw the internet into chaos with a blunt, unfiltered response.
“I don’t need Elon Musk’s money to be who I am,” Reese posted across her social media platforms. “I drive change, not trucks. Respectfully, I pass.”
The reaction was instant and explosive. Some praised Reese’s integrity and refusal to “sell out,” especially at a time when many young stars are jumping at billion-dollar brand partnerships. Others questioned her decision to walk away from such an enormous payday, especially given the rare crossover between high-performance sports and high-performance vehicles.
Inside sources close to Reese say that while she admired Tesla’s innovation, she was not comfortable aligning herself with Musk’s increasingly controversial public image. “Angel has always been about more than the money,” one associate noted. “This was about values, not a paycheck.”
On the other side, Musk—never one to back down from a public feud—reposted her statement with a cryptic comment: “Your loss. The Cybertruck doesn’t beg.”
The tension between Musk and Reese instantly lit up the media landscape. Fans took sides, with hashtags like #TeamReese and #CyberFlop trending across platforms. The backlash was especially fierce from women’s sports advocates who praised Reese for standing up for herself and setting an example for young female athletes.
Reese has yet to comment further, but insiders suggest she’s already fielding other partnership offers from brands that better align with her values, including fashion labels, wellness companies, and social justice organizations. The rejection of Tesla may have cost her $100 million, but it just might earn her even more in long-term credibility and cultural influence.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Angel Reese isn’t just playing the game—she’s rewriting the rules.
