Chicago Sky’s rookie player, Angel Reese, will miss the rest of the 2024 WNBA season due to a wrist injury that she suffered during a game against the Los Angeles Sparks. However, despite the setback, Reese has expressed her gratitude and resilience in looking forward to what comes next. She has made quite a name for herself as a rookie in the WNBA, exceeding expectations with her exceptional rebounding skills, which led her to set new single-season records for the league.
The Sky drafted Reese seventh in the 2024 WNBA Draft out of LSU. Since joining the team, she has set several records, including the most rebounds in a single season (446) and offensive rebounds (172). On top of this, she surpassed Sylvia Fowles for the WNBA single-season total rebound record on 2nd September. Reese became the first player in league history to record three consecutive games of 20 or more rebounds, solidifying her as one of the league’s leading players.
With 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game on 39.1 percent shooting from the floor in 34 games, Reese played her final match of the season against the Los Angeles Sparks, a game they won 92-78. Despite the unfortunate injury, Reese’s debut season in the WNBA has set high expectations for the player in her future career. Her contributions to the Sky helped the team maintain a playoff position and will leave a significant gap in the team in her absence.
Despite her astonishing records and playing only 34 games, Reese stands as the second most productive rookie player of the WNBA, trailing only behind Caitlin Clark. Reese proved herself to be a deserving All-Star, contributing an imposing 12 points and 11 rebounds off the bench for Team WNBA in a victory against the Olympic team. She is expected to receive All-Rookie honors though she is unlikely to contend for the Rookie of the Year title.
As for the Sky, the impact of Reese’s absence will be palpable. The team has been significantly better with Reese than without her, holding a 22.5 points better per 100 possessions when she is on the court. Reece’s effective field-goal percentage of 39.5, while below league average, demonstrates her ability to create extra possessions and defend her position, significantly contributing to the team. In her absence, the Sky will need to channel their reliance on Isabelle Harrison, Brianna Turner, and possibly Michaela Onyenwere.
This season’s performance has certainly established Angel Reese as a player to watch in the WNBA. Her relentless pursuit of rebounds and defensive capabilities have made her a strong asset to the Chicago Sky. As she plans for her recovery, fans will undoubtedly be looking forward to seeing the heights she’ll reach in her sophomore year.
