Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese had a memorable moment in a recent game against the Connecticut Sun, where a physical altercation with Sun veteran Alyssa Thomas resulted in Thomas being ejected from the game. The incident occurred in the third quarter during a battle for a rebound, with Thomas clotheslining Reese, leading to a flagrant foul 2 call and her automatic ejection. Reese, who finished the game with 13 points, five rebounds, and two assists, took the incident in stride, viewing it as a learning experience and part of the physical nature of basketball. She expressed a desire to be challenged and tested by opponents, emphasizing that as a basketball player, she wants to be treated like any other player on the court.
Despite being a rookie, Reese does not seek special treatment from opponents and is willing to face the pressure, physicality, and aggression that comes with playing in the WNBA. She appreciates the challenge Thomas presented and sees it as an opportunity to show her resilience and determination to keep fighting. Reese and Thomas have a history together, having both played for the Maryland Terrapins in college, and Reese has long admired Thomas’s strength and skill on the court. She sees the incident as a test of her own abilities and is grateful for the opportunity to prove herself in a tough game.
Reese’s performance in her rookie season has been impressive, with averages of 12.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game during the 2024 season. She has quickly acclimated to the competitive environment of the WNBA and shown that she is capable of holding her own against veteran players. Reese’s attitude towards the game and her willingness to face challenges head-on have garnered respect from both her teammates and opponents. She is focused on continuing to improve and contribute to her team’s success, embracing the physical nature of the sport and demonstrating her resilience in the face of adversity.
The altercation with Thomas served as a reminder to Reese of the intensity and competitiveness of the WNBA and the need to be mentally and physically prepared for any situation on the court. Her willingness to confront challenges head-on and learn from every experience reflects her strong mindset and determination to succeed in the league. Reese’s ability to handle adversity and maintain a positive attitude in the face of setbacks will serve her well as she continues to grow and develop as a player in the WNBA.
Reese’s unwavering commitment to improving and facing challenges head-on has earned her respect and admiration from fans and fellow players alike. Her willingness to embrace the physicality of the game and learn from every experience, no matter how challenging, bodes well for her future in the WNBA. As she continues to develop and mature as a player, Reese’s resilience and determination will be key factors in her success on the court. Her positive attitude and willingness to learn from every situation set her apart as a promising young talent in the league.
