Angel Reese expected the WNBA to be a bigger jump in talent

Reese has hit the ground running in her rookie seasonLAPRESSE

Angel Reese, the rookie forward, has made an impressive entry into the WNBA, rapidly emerging as one of her team’s standout players. Her successful transition from college to professional basketball has been attributed to the rigorous training regimen at LSU under head coach Kim Mulkey.

Reese spoke with CBS Sports on Wednesday, reflecting on her first year in the WNBA. She is currently averaging close to a double-double with 11.6 points and 9.6 rebounds per game.

“I think my transition has been great,” Reese commented. “It hasn’t been a huge surprise because Kim Mulkey kind of prepared me for this moment. At LSU, our practices were intense, lasting about four hours. We were always ready and working hard. I thought training camp was going to be tougher, so I felt really prepared. I haven’t had any major WNBA surprises yet.”

During her time at LSU, Reese was a dominant force, particularly notable during the Tigers’ 2023 national title run, where she averaged 21 points and 15 rebounds per game. Although she couldn’t replicate the championship success the following year, bowing out in the Elite Eight to Caitlin Clark, her collegiate prowess translated well to the professional stage.

Reese recounted her early challenges in the WNBA, including a tough debut against the Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier. “My first game was against Minnesota, and I guarded Napheesa. I was getting cooked the first game, I’m not gonna lie,” she admitted. Collier, a seasoned veteran, scored 17 points in 19 minutes during that preseason game. This year, Collier is nearly averaging 21 points per game, a testament to her skill level.

Angel Reese is growing from her WNBA experiences

Rather than be disheartened, Reese viewed the experience as a valuable lesson. She aims to continue growing both personally and professionally, while also making a positive impact on young aspiring athletes.

“I’ve always wanted to be a great basketball player, but leaving my mark on this game and influencing other little girls’ and boys’ lives is very important to me,” Reese said.

Despite facing criticism, Reese has remained true to herself, drawing significant attention to both women’s college basketball and the WNBA. This weekend, all eyes will be on the matchup between the Chicago Sky and the Indiana Fever. Reese will have a chance to avenge her previous professional losses to Caitlin Clark, who currently holds a two-game win streak in their individual rivalry.

The game on Sunday promises to be a thrilling contest, as Reese seeks to assert her dominance and continue her remarkable rookie season.