In a remarkable display of talent, Angel Reese made WNBA history by securing a double-double in the All-Star Game, marking her as a standout rookie in the league. Despite facing the formidable Team USA, Reese, representing the Chicago Sky, achieved 12 points and 11 rebounds on Saturday night, becoming the first rookie to attain a double-double in the All-Star Game since its inception in 1999. This impressive feat highlighted her debut in the prestigious event.
Reese’s performance was efficient and impactful. She scored on five of her ten shots and managed to achieve the double-double in just 18 minutes off the bench for Team WNBA. Her efforts, combined with Arike Ogunbowale’s record-breaking 34-point game, propelled Team WNBA to a 117-109 victory over Team USA.
Reese’s rookie season has been characterized by record-breaking achievements. Earlier in the year, she set a new WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles, with 15 straight games surpassing Candace Parker’s previous record of 12. Her outstanding performance earned her the WNBA Rookie of the Month award in June, and she became the first player from the 2024 WNBA Draft class to receive Player of the Week honors in Week 7.
Throughout the first half of the season, Reese has maintained impressive statistics, averaging 13.5 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. She is the only rookie currently averaging a double-double, further solidifying her status as a key player for the Chicago Sky.
One of the highlights of the All-Star Game was the fourth-quarter collaboration between Reese and fellow rookie Caitlin Clark of the Indiana Fever. In a memorable play, Clark drove to the basket and assisted Reese for an easy score, marking their first on-court connection. This moment hinted at a promising future for both players, who are likely to become integral members of the U.S. Women’s National Team.
Saturday’s All-Star Game was a significant milestone for Reese, demonstrating her consistent dominance for the Chicago Sky throughout the season. Her double-double performance going into the Olympic break underscored her readiness to compete at the highest levels and set the stage for what promises to be a stellar career in the WNBA.
