Sep 8, 2024, 06:56 AM
Angel Reese's remarkable rookie season with the Chicago Sky has been cut short by a wrist injury sustained during Friday's game against the Los Angeles Sparks.
"What a year," Reese shared on social media Saturday. "I never imagined my last bucket of the rookie season would be a three-pointer, but maybe that’s God’s way of showing what’s to come in Year 2 lol. I’m overwhelmed with emotions right now, but also incredibly grateful for what lies ahead. This injury, while disappointing, allows me to take a much-needed physical and mental break. 'God gives his hardest battles to his strongest soldiers.'"
Reese, the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft and a standout national champion from LSU, made a significant impact in her first WNBA season. She achieved 26 double-doubles, the second-highest in a single season in WNBA history, and set a record with 15 consecutive double-doubles.
Her final season averages were 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game. Reese’s exceptional performance earned her an All-Star selection, making her and Caitlin Clark the first pair of rookies to be named All-Stars since 2014. Reese became the fourth rookie All-Star for the Sky and the first since 2013.
Heading into the Sky's game against the Dallas Wings, Reese was initially listed as questionable due to her injury. Despite mixed pre-draft evaluations about how her game would translate to the pros, Reese’s rebounding prowess was unmatched. She became the first player in WNBA history to record 20 or more rebounds in consecutive games, achieving this feat in three straight games. Her 446 rebounds in 34 games set a new single-season record, and her rebounding average is on track to be the highest ever.
Reese's influence extended beyond the court, as her popularity on social media and appearances at high-profile events like the Met Gala and collaborations with celebrities like Megan Thee Stallion and Cardi B helped bring new fans to the WNBA. Her presence, combined with her on-court excellence, significantly boosted interest in the Sky, who also drafted rookie standout Kamilla Cardoso.
"Through it all, I have shown that I belong in this league even when no one else believed," Reese wrote. "All I’ve ever wanted is to make an impact in the WNBA, and I can confidently say I have done that and will continue to do so."
Reese also plans to participate in Unrivaled, a new 3x3 league co-founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, launching in January.
The Sky (12-22) are currently eighth in the standings and aiming for the final playoff spot. The second half of their season has been challenging, with a 2-8 record and the absence of top scorer Chennedy Carter for five games. The Sky ended a seven-game losing streak with a win against the Sparks on Friday, marking Carter’s return since August 25.
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