Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese’s WNBA season came to an abrupt end due to a wrist injury, forcing her to miss the remainder of the year. Despite the disappointment of the injury, Reese expressed gratitude for the opportunity to rest and recover. She concluded her rookie season with an impressive achievement of breaking the record for most rebounds in a single WNBA season, averaging 13.1 rebounds per game. Reese surpassed Sylvia Fowles’ previous record in just 23 games, establishing herself as a dominant force on the court.
Reese’s remarkable performance throughout her rookie year positioned her as a strong contender for the WNBA Rookie of the Year award, challenging fellow rookie star Caitlin Clark. While Clark had better statistics in points, assists, steals, blocks, and shooting percentages, Reese excelled in rebounds, more than doubling Clark’s average per game. Despite the statistical comparisons, Reese and Clark faced off in a heated rivalry that dated back to their college careers. Reese was vocal about the respect she had for Clark, but also spoke out against the harassment and racism she allegedly faced from Clark’s fans, including death threats and AI-generated images depicting her inappropriately.
Before her season-ending injury, Reese discussed her rivalry with Clark on her podcast and emphasized the competitive but respectful nature of their relationship. She highlighted the negative experiences she had with Clark’s fans, detailing instances of harassment she endured, including people showing up at her home and sending inappropriate images to her family members. The intensity of the rivalry between Reese and Clark was fueled by their competitive spirits and the passionate support from their respective fan bases.
The WNBA landscape saw Reese and Clark as the standout rookies in the league, with both players making an impact early in their careers. Reese’s performance on the court earned her accolades and recognition, with former NBA All-Star Joakim Noah even expressing support for Reese as his pick for Rookie of the Year. Despite the injury setback, Reese’s contribution to the Chicago Sky and her impressive rebounding abilities solidified her position as a rising star in the WNBA.
Reese’s injury not only derailed her rookie season but also raised concerns about the safety and well-being of players in professional sports. The incidents of harassment and threats experienced by Reese shed light on the darker side of sports fandom and the impact it can have on athletes. As Reese begins her recovery process and looks towards the future, her resilience and determination in the face of adversity serve as a testament to her strength as a player and a person. The support and recognition she received from her peers and fans underscore the importance of solidarity and empathy within the sports community.
