CHICAGO – Angel Reese’s Rookie Season: A Defensive Star in the Making
In her first WNBA season, Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese set a bold goal: “I want to guard the best player every game.” That wish was quickly granted. In her preseason debut against the Minnesota Lynx, Reese found herself up against Napheesa Collier—arguably the best power forward in the league and eventual MVP runner-up. Despite being a dominant defender throughout her college career, Reese received a harsh welcome to the WNBA. In just 19 minutes, Collier put on a scoring clinic, dropping 17 points with relative ease.
“I felt like I was exposed that first time,” Reese admitted during her end-of-season interview. “And I told myself, ‘I don’t want to feel like that again.’”
Despite the early setback, Reese’s defense became her signature strength during a season where she broke records and helped push women’s basketball to new commercial heights. Averaging 13.6 points and a league-leading 13.1 rebounds, she set a WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles. Yet, it was her defense that defined her rookie campaign and laid the foundation for the legacy she hopes to build in Chicago and the WNBA.
Although her block numbers (0.5 per game) may not stand out, Reese served as the Sky’s defensive anchor, a role that was especially noticeable when she missed the final six games due to injury. Her on/off statistics further demonstrated her impact: when Reese was on the court, the Sky snagged 8.1 more defensive rebounds, had 1.6 more steals, and held opponents to 11.2 fewer points in offensive rating.
Reese’s versatility on defense translated smoothly to the pro level, as she excelled in essential skills like off-ball rotations, perimeter challenges, and navigating switches. “Defense is something I really wanted to focus on,” she said. “I’ve won championships just by playing defense and rebounding, so I understand its importance.”
However, Reese knows that to reach her full potential, she needs to elevate her offensive game. Her offseason focus is already on balancing her play, especially after a fractured wrist cut her season short. Reese underwent surgery on September 10 and has since been in recovery, maintaining a training regimen with daily workouts that focus on running, agility, and one-handed basketball drills. Once her cast comes off in October, she’ll begin physical therapy, aiming for a full recovery before the Unrivaled season kicks off in January.
Reese’s rookie workload was significant. As the No. 7 pick in the draft, she didn’t expect to be a starter, but she averaged 32.5 minutes per game—the most on the Sky and 14th in the league. Despite moments of fatigue, Reese is determined to improve her stamina. She’s planning to implement a more rigorous nutrition plan and will emphasize cardio endurance and strength training to prepare her for intense one-on-one battles in the post and high-pressure moments late in games.
Reese’s offensive struggles were evident, particularly her inefficiency around the rim and from the perimeter. She shot just 44.5% inside the restricted area, 33.3% from midrange, and 18.8% from beyond the arc. While there was some improvement in her midrange shooting late in the season, defenders often left her unguarded due to her lack of scoring threat. Reese recognizes that her first full offseason is critical for refining her shot and improving her ballhandling. With more time to focus on these areas, she hopes to make the leap offensively next season.
Reese is also seeking guidance from basketball legends like Sky co-owner Dwyane Wade, who has been pushing her to take more shots, regardless of the outcome. “This offseason is about building confidence,” she said. “I know I can make those shots. It’s just about having the mindset to take them, even if I miss the first or second one.”
For Reese, this offseason is about personal growth. But it’s also a crucial period for the Sky, who are in the midst of rebuilding. As they look to build around a young core, Reese’s development will be key to their future success.
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