Angel Reese Is an Underrated WNBA Talent: A Statistical and Cultural Powerhouse
Angel Reese Is an Underrated WNBA Talent: A Statistical and Cultural Powerhouse
By Jocelyn Alano May 28, 2025 17:06
Angel Reese’s name has become synonymous with hustle, heart, and historic production in the WNBA. Yet, despite shattering records and redefining the role of a modern forward, she remains one of the league’s most underrated stars. While much of the national conversation centers on high-profile rookies and established veterans, Reese’s consistent dominance, relentless rebounding, and cultural impact deserve far greater recognition.
Historic Production: Breaking Records at a Blistering Pace
Reese’s statistical achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. On May 28, 2025, she became the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 500 career points and 500 rebounds, accomplishing the feat in just 38 games—surpassing the previous record set by Tina Charles, who needed 44 games. This milestone is not an outlier; it’s part of a pattern of record-breaking performances that underscore her impact on the court.
Her rookie season was a showcase of dominance: Reese led the league in rebounds per game (13.1) and offensive rebounds per game (5.1), and she set the WNBA rookie record for most double-doubles in a season, stringing together 15 consecutive double-doubles and surpassing Candace Parker’s previous mark. By July 2024, she had already been named an All-Star—becoming just the fourth rookie in Chicago Sky history to earn that honor.
“She’s a dawg, that’s why I’m a fan of her,” said fellow WNBA star Skylar Diggins-Smith, highlighting Reese’s relentless approach to the game.
Elite Rebounding and Second-Chance Mastery
Reese’s rebounding numbers are not just impressive—they’re generational. She currently ranks second in the WNBA in rebounds per game (11.9), trailing only MVP favorite A’ja Wilson. Reese’s offensive rebounding, in particular, sets her apart: she leads the league in second-chance points and has already broken the WNBA record for most offensive rebounds in a season by a rookie.
Her instincts for tracking the ball and creating extra possessions are unteachable. As one analyst noted, “Angel Reese has a natural, unteachable instinct for where the ball’s going to come off the rim. Based on her trajectory, she could retire as the WNBA’s all-time leading rebounder.”
Versatility and Growth: More Than Just a Rebounder
While critics have pointed to Reese’s shooting efficiency as an area for improvement—her field goal percentage dipped early in 2025—her ability to impact the game in multiple ways is undeniable. She’s already recorded games with 25+ points, 15+ rebounds, and five steals, joining elite company such as Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker.
Chicago Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca praised her adaptability: “Angel’s ability to stay calm under pressure and her desire to be great are the most impressive things about her. She’s not afraid to learn and improve, and she’s not intimidated by the competition or the spotlight.”
Reese herself embraces the challenge, stating, “I want to start at the bottom again. I want to be a rookie again and build myself back up; I want to be knocked down and learn and grow at the next level.”
Cultural Impact and Leadership
Beyond the box score, Reese is weaving culture deeper into the fabric of the WNBA. She’s unapologetically herself, using her platform to speak out on issues of race, gender, and equity in sports. “I have a voice and I’m not going to stop using my voice,” Reese said. Her rivalry with Caitlin Clark has brought unprecedented attention to women’s basketball, but Reese’s willingness to embrace the “bad guy” role and advocate for her teammates has made her a leader both on and off the court.
“If I can help grow the game as much as I can with these bigger brands and get more publicity to the WNBA, that’s my goal,” Reese explained.
Why She’s Underrated
Despite her accolades, Reese is often overshadowed by flashier scorers or more established stars. Some critics focus on her shooting struggles, but overlook her elite defense, leadership, and game-changing rebounding. Reese’s impact is felt in every possession, every hustle play, and every second-chance opportunity she creates for her team.
Her ceiling remains sky-high. As she continues to refine her offensive game and expand her range, there’s every reason to believe Angel Reese will soon be recognized not just as an All-Star, but as one of the WNBA’s true franchise players.
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