Angel Reese was a 2024 WNBA All-Star and the closest challenger to Caitlin Clark for Rookie of the Year. The 6’3 forward was instantly one of the best rebounders in the W, but there were questions about her offensive game. Reese struggled to score inside and made just three of her 16 3-point attempts. There was clearly work to do for her to become an elite two-way force in the W.
Reese quickly got back in the gym and began preparing. She wants to help the Sky back to the playoffs in 2025 and is growing her game in Unrivaled. Reese is using the new league to recruit too. Many of the W’s elite are taking part, and Chicago certainly needs more talent.
Unrivaled had their first two games on Jan. 17. It was an exciting night with two close contests. Reese took center stage in the main event and wasted zero time showing off some added elements to her game.
Angel Reese put on a show in the first quarter of her Unrivaled opener
Less than 30 seconds into the contest, Reese showcased some improved footwork and made a layup. It was a beautiful move. Fans saw her struggle to score inside consistently as a rookie, but that may be a thing of the past.
Reese was far from done. She had eight points and three rebounds in the opening seven minutes, which included a nice sidestep mid-range jumper. The 22-year-old has talked about expanding her range, and fans saw the first steps on Friday night.
She finished with ten points, 14 rebounds, and four assists as the Rose fell to the Vinyl. It was not all positive from Reese in the Unrivaled opener. The 6’3 forward committed five turnovers and had a couple of head-scratching fouls in the fourth quarter. She hit three of her seven field goal attempts, but fans did not see her try a 3-pointer on night one.
Unrivaled is full-court 3-on-3 with fast-paced play. Players will certainly be in top shape heading into the WNBA season. The Rose need Reese to be a threatening shooter as well as dominating on the glass. Her passing and playmaking must improve. This league provides a great opportunity for her to have the ball more and grow several aspects of her game.
Angel Reese showed fans plenty in the first quarter on Friday night. She finished with a double-double but was not happy her team lost.
Chicago Sky fans should be excited. Reese will be better in year two, and Unrivaled may be her shot to convince some talent to join her. Supporters can only hope. It was a fun first night, and the Rose play again on Saturday afternoon. Be sure to tune in to see what Reese can do next.