CHICAGO — Angel Reese’s historic rookie season is over.
The Chicago Sky forward said on social media Saturday night that she has a season-ending injury, but didn’t specify what it was. She was listed on the team’s injury report with a wrist injury.
“What a year. I never would have imagined the last bucket of my rookie season would be a 3 but maybe that was God saying give them a taste of what they will be seeing more of in Year 2 lol,” Reese wrote. “Through it all, I have showed that I belong in this league even when no one else believed. All I have ever wanted was to come into the W and make an impact. I can confidently say I have done that and will strive to keep doing so.”
Reese, the No. 7 pick in the draft, finished the season averaging 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds. It’s the highest rebound average in the history of the WNBA. Reese also set the rookie record with 26 double-doubles — her last coming in a 92-78 win over Los Angeles on Friday night.
Reese has been intertwined with Indiana rookie Caitlin Clark since the pair faced off in the NCAA championship two years ago. Reese’s LSU squad came away with the win. The pair have lifted up the WNBA in ratings, attendance and merchandise sale this season.
Earlier in the season, Reese had 15 straight games with a double-double to break the league’s record. She also set the mark for total rebounds in a season, passing Sylvia Fowles’ mark of 404. The Sky rookie finished with 446 total rebounds this year — including a record 172 on the offensive end. Las Vegas Aces’ star A’ja Wilson has 406 rebounds this season.
Chicago is battling for the WNBA’s final playoff spot, currently tied with Atlanta for the eighth position. The Sky host Dallas on Sunday.
Reese is slated to play in the new 3-on-3 league Unrivaled that will start in the winter in Miami.
Angel Reese, the promising rookie of the Sky, has announced the end of her first season in the WNBA due to a wrist injury. The 6-foot-3 forward was selected by the Sky as the 10th overall pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft and had shown great potential in her limited playing time.
Reese suffered the injury during a game against the Las Vegas Aces, where she landed awkwardly on her wrist while going up for a rebound. Despite trying to play through the pain, Reese and the team’s medical staff decided it was best for her to sit out the remainder of the season to allow her wrist to fully heal.
This is a disappointing turn of events for Reese, who was eager to make an impact in her rookie season and help the Sky in their quest for a playoff spot. However, injuries are a part of the game, and it is important for Reese to prioritize her long-term health and well-being.
The Sky will now have to adjust to playing without Reese for the rest of the season, but they have a talented roster that is capable of stepping up in her absence. Head coach James Wade will need to rely on players like Candace Parker, Kahleah Copper, and Courtney Vandersloot to fill the void left by Reese’s absence.
Despite this setback, Reese remains optimistic about her future in the WNBA and is determined to come back stronger next season. With her size, athleticism, and skill set, Reese has the potential to be a key player for the Sky for years to come.
Injuries are always a tough part of sports, but they are also an opportunity for players to learn and grow. Reese’s resilience and determination will serve her well as she works towards making a successful comeback in the WNBA. Fans of the Sky can look forward to seeing her back on the court next season, ready to make an impact once again.