Angel Reese Sets WNBA Record with Chicago Sky, Rewriting History.
In a remarkable rookie season with the Chicago Sky, former LSU standout Angel Reese has made headlines by setting a new WNBA record. Reese recorded her 10th consecutive double-double, breaking the previous single-season record held by two-time MVP Candace Parker, who had achieved nine straight double-doubles in 2015.
On June 23, 2024, Reese’s impressive performance against the Minnesota Lynx marked this historic achievement. Her ability to consistently deliver double-doubles not only highlights her talent but also sets a new benchmark in the WNBA, showcasing her potential to continue making history.
Reese’s journey to this record has been nothing short of spectacular. Despite the Chicago Sky’s struggles early in the 2024 season, Reese has stood out as a dominant force. She currently averages 13.5 points, 11.1 rebounds, and a team-high 1.6 steals per game, leading all WNBA rookies in several statistical categories, including offensive rebounds.
Her relentless performance on the court has been a beacon of hope for her team and a testament to her skills and determination.
The rookie’s prowess is not limited to just scoring and rebounding. She has also excelled defensively, becoming the first WNBA player this year to record consecutive double-doubles with five or more steals. Reese’s defensive capabilities have been a significant asset for the Chicago Sky, further cementing her role as a key player in the league.
Reese attributes much of her success to her time at LSU and the rigorous training under Coach Kim Mulkey. In an interview with CBS Sports, Reese mentioned how Mulkey’s demanding practices prepared her for the challenges of the WNBA. “At LSU, our practice was like four hours.
We were ready, we were working. I thought training was going to be harder. I think I was really prepared. I didn’t have any WNBA surprises yet,” Reese said, highlighting the seamless transition from college to professional basketball.
Reese’s impact extends beyond her statistical achievements. She has brought attention to women’s basketball, much like her contemporaries Caitlin Clark and others, drawing significant interest and viewership to the sport.
Her decision to leave LSU a year early was challenging, but Reese knew it was the right move for her career. She expressed gratitude for Coach Mulkey’s support and trust in her decision to join the WNBA.
“Leaving LSU was tough, but Mulkey talked to (head coach Teresa Weatherspoon) and she trusted T-Spoon with me. She knows it’s the same. (Weatherspoon) expects a lot out of me,” Reese shared. She emphasized the deep bond she shares with Mulkey, who has been more than just a coach, but a mentor and a mother figure.
Reese’s tenure at LSU was transformative for both her and the program. She helped lead the Tigers to their first NCAA Championship and recorded 61 double-doubles, second only to Sylvia Fowles in school history. Her contributions have left a lasting legacy at LSU, elevating the program’s status and inspiring future generations of players.
Coach Kim Mulkey reflected on Reese’s impact, saying, “Angel transferred to LSU after my first season in Baton Rouge and she helped transform our program.
When she came here, she said she wanted to be here for two seasons and she has lived up to that. What a remarkable two years it has been. We are all indebted to Angel Reese for the contributions she has given to this program, helping us win our first National Championship, and the contributions she made on our university as a whole.
She not only helped grow our program but had an impact on growing the game of women’s basketball across the country. We wish her good luck as she moves to the WNBA and look forward to seeing all that she accomplishes. We will miss her but will always cherish the two years we got to spend with her. Forever LSU.”
As Reese continues her rookie season, she is on track to shatter more records, including Yolanda Griffith’s single-season record for offensive rebounds. With 81 offensive rebounds in 17 games, Reese is projected to reach 190 by the end of the season, further demonstrating her exceptional ability on the court.
Reese’s remarkable journey from LSU to the WNBA highlights her talent, hard work, and the support she received from her coaches and teammates.
Her record-breaking performances are not just personal milestones but also significant moments in the history of women’s basketball. As she continues to excel, Angel Reese is undoubtedly a rising star, paving the way for future generations in the WNBA.
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