Angel Reese Makes History While Crediting Teammates: “Wasn’t Just Me” After Record-Breaking Night Against Sparks
Chicago Sky’s rising star Angel Reese delivered another spectacular performance that will be etched in WNBA history books, yet her post-game comments revealed the humble character that has endeared her to fans and teammates alike. Following the Sky’s impressive 92-85 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks, Reese became the first player in WNBA history to record 15 or more rebounds in four consecutive games, a feat that speaks volumes about her dominance on the boards and her relentless pursuit of excellence.
The 22-year-old forward’s stat line of 24 points and 16 rebounds against the Sparks was nothing short of extraordinary, but what caught everyone’s attention was her immediate deflection of individual praise to her teammates when asked about her historic achievement. “It wasn’t just me rebounds tonight,” Reese said with characteristic humility, emphasizing how her teammates’ screens, positioning, and overall effort created the opportunities that allowed her to excel on the glass throughout the contest.
Reese’s record-breaking streak began building momentum over her previous three games, where she consistently pulled down 15 or more rebounds while showcasing the tenacity and basketball IQ that made her a standout at LSU before entering the professional ranks. Her ability to read the trajectory of missed shots, combined with her exceptional timing and positioning, has made her one of the most feared rebounders in the league despite being in just her rookie season with the WNBA.
The historic nature of Reese’s accomplishment cannot be overstated, considering the caliber of players who have graced the WNBA courts over the past 27 years since the league’s inception in 1997. Legendary rebounders like Sylvia Fowles, Candace Parker, and Tina Charles have all left their mark on the league, yet none managed to achieve the specific milestone that Reese has now claimed as her own through sheer determination and skill.
What makes Reese’s achievement even more remarkable is the context in which it occurred, as she continues to adapt to the professional level while facing some of the world’s best players night after night. Her seamless transition from college basketball to the WNBA has been one of the most impressive rookie campaigns in recent memory, with her rebounding prowess serving as the foundation for her overall impact on the court.
The Chicago Sky organization has found itself with a legitimate cornerstone player in Reese, whose presence in the paint has transformed their defensive identity and provided them with consistent second-chance opportunities on the offensive end. Her teammates have quickly learned to rely on her ability to secure defensive rebounds and initiate fast breaks, while her offensive rebounding creates additional possessions that often prove crucial in tight games.
Reese’s post-game comments about teamwork reflect a maturity and understanding of basketball that extends far beyond her years, recognizing that individual achievements in basketball are rarely accomplished in isolation. Her acknowledgment of her teammates’ contributions demonstrates the kind of leadership qualities that championship teams are built around, even as she continues to establish herself as one of the league’s premier talents.
The technical aspects of Reese’s rebounding success reveal a player who has studied the game intensively and understands the nuances of positioning, timing, and anticipation that separate good rebounders from great ones. Her ability to maintain balance while battling for position, combined with her quick second jump, allows her to secure rebounds even when she doesn’t have the initial advantage in terms of positioning or height.
As the WNBA season progresses, Reese’s historic rebounding streak has positioned her as a legitimate candidate for Rookie of the Year honors while simultaneously establishing her as a player who could contend for rebounding titles for years to come. Her impact extends beyond individual statistics, as her presence has elevated the overall competitiveness of the Chicago Sky and given them a legitimate chance to make noise in the playoff race.
Looking ahead, the question becomes not whether Reese can maintain her exceptional level of play, but rather how much higher she can raise the bar for herself and her teammates as they continue their pursuit of WNBA excellence. Her combination of individual brilliance and team-first mentality suggests that this historic night against the Sparks is merely the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable professional career filled with achievements that will inspire the next generation of basketball players.
The WNBA has witnessed the emergence of a special talent in Angel Reese, whose record-breaking performance and humble response afterward encapsulate everything that makes professional basketball compelling to watch and follow. Her journey from college standout to professional record-setter serves as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the understanding that individual success is always enhanced when shared with teammates who contribute to the collective achievement.