Angel Reese, the former LSU women’s basketball forward, has chosen to remain silent following the controversial incident involving her Chicago Sky teammate, Chennedy Carter, and Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark. The incident, which has sparked significant discussion, saw Carter deliver a cheap shot to Clark during a game. Reese, who has often been perceived as the “bad guy” in the WNBA, seems to be embracing this role, a sentiment she has carried since her college days with the LSU Tigers.
Reese’s journey with this perception began after the 2023 NCAA women’s basketball national championship game. She has faced numerous negative comments and criticisms over the past two years. However, she views this as a testament to the growing attention and popularity of women’s basketball. “People are talking about women’s basketball, who you’d never think would be talking about women’s basketball,” Reese remarked. She believes that the increased visibility and celebrity attendance at games are partly due to the controversies and discussions surrounding her.
Reese’s recent comments were in response to the attention and remarks from the Indiana Fever organization, including Clark, who believes she has been defended more physically than any other player in the WNBA. The incident in question occurred during the Fever-Sky game, where Carter pushed Clark to the floor from behind. Initially assessed as a common foul, it was later upgraded to a Flagrant 1 foul by the WNBA. Reese was seen clapping from the Sky bench during the incident, further fueling the controversy.
Following the game, Reese was fined $1,000 by the WNBA for not making herself available to the media. Despite the fine, Reese’s performance on the court has been notable, averaging 10.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists through seven games with Chicago. The Sky are set to host the New York Liberty at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.
Reese’s entry into the WNBA was met with mixed reactions. Despite her impressive college resume, including being a national champion and a three-time All-American, some questioned her fit in the WNBA. However, the Chicago Sky had no such doubts, making a significant trade to secure her at the No. 7 spot in the draft. Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca expressed his excitement about Reese joining the team, highlighting her competitive nature and alignment with the team’s identity and culture.
Reese’s college career demonstrated the importance of synergy between her and her coach. Now, she will play under Teresa Weatherspoon, who has a history with Reese’s college coach, Kim Mulkey. The Sky also drafted South Carolina’s Kamilla Cardoso, a 6-foot-7 center, to pair with Reese, allowing her to play at her natural power forward position. This strategic move aims to maximize Reese’s potential and development.
Reese’s transition to the WNBA involves expanding her game beyond the rim, a challenge she is ready to embrace. Chicago, with its focus on player development, is seen as the ideal place for her growth. Pagliocca emphasized the team’s long-term vision and commitment to developing players who can contribute to future title contention.
Reese’s determination to improve and take on new challenges is evident. She expressed her desire to start over, be a rookie again, and learn from the veterans in the league. This mindset aligns with the Sky’s approach to player development and their future vision.
The pairing of Reese and Cardoso is promising, given their familiarity with each other’s games and their ability to share space on the court. Both players are known for their rebounding prowess and can function effectively in both the low and high post.
While immediate expectations for Reese may not be grand, the Sky are focused on her daily improvement and long-term development. Pagliocca and his team are committed to designing individual development plans for their rookies, with Reese being a central figure in their rebuilding process.
Reese’s journey in the WNBA is just beginning, and she is determined to prove her worth and silence the external doubts. Her competitive spirit, combined with the support of her team and organization, sets the stage for a promising future in the league.
