Angel Reese, the star rookie for the Chicago Sky, faced disappointment as her impressive 15-game double-double streak came to an end in a tough 81-67 loss to the New York Liberty. Reese, who had been setting records with her consistent performances, finished the game with eight points and 16 rebounds, falling short of her usual standards.
Despite her remarkable achievements in the past games, Reese struggled to make an impact on the court, shooting 3 for 13 from the floor and scoring only two points in the second half. The Liberty’s strong defense made it challenging for Reese to continue her streak, as they surrounded her in the final moments of the game, forcing her to pass the ball to a teammate instead of taking a shot herself.
Reflecting on her focus on winning rather than personal records, Reese expressed her disappointment at not being able to contribute more to her team’s success. She acknowledged the importance of consistency but emphasized that the ultimate goal was to secure victories for the Chicago Sky.
Despite the loss, Reese’s performance in the game added to her overall season achievements, as she leads the WNBA in rebounds with a total of 276 boards in her first 23 games. Her impact on the court has been significant, and her potential for future success is evident as she continues to develop her skills and lead her team.
Coach Teresa Weatherspoon highlighted the challenges the Sky faced in the game, particularly in scoring points in the paint and getting to the free-throw line. She praised her team’s effort and aggressiveness but lamented the lack of opportunities to capitalize on offensive plays and draw fouls.
Looking ahead, the Chicago Sky will face the Las Vegas Aces in their final matchup before the All-Star Game and Olympic break. With players like Reese and Caitlin Clark representing the team in the All-Star Game and contending for the Rookie of the Year title, there is a sense of optimism for the future of the franchise.
As Reese remains focused on team success and the pursuit of a championship for Chicago, her determination and leadership will be crucial in guiding the Sky to greater heights in the remainder of the season. Despite the end of her impressive double-double streak, Reese’s impact on the court and her dedication to winning make her a standout player to watch in the WNBA.