Angel Reese Makes WNBA History but Faces Backlash for Late-Game Play in Loss to Fever
Chicago Sky rookie Angel Reese etched her name in the WNBA record books on Friday night, but her historic achievement wasn’t without controversy. In a much-anticipated matchup against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever at Wintrust Arena, Reese became the WNBA’s all-time rookie leader in double-doubles, but the way she secured the record left fans divided.
Reese, who has been a standout forward for the Sky, finished the game with 10 points and 11 rebounds, marking her 23rd double-double of the season. This milestone made her the rookie with the most double-doubles in WNBA history, a feat that would typically be celebrated with widespread applause.
However, Reese’s accomplishment came under scrutiny due to the circumstances surrounding her final points. With just 1:32 left on the clock and the Sky trailing 98-78, Reese drove to the basket for a layup, securing her 10th point of the game. While the basket solidified her record, it did little to change the outcome of the game, as the Sky were already down by a significant margin.
Fans on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), were quick to criticize the move. Some viewed it as a questionable decision, focusing more on personal accolades than on the team’s performance in a game that was already out of reach. The criticism was swift, with many fans jokingly “clowning” Reese for what they perceived as a hollow pursuit of a record.
Despite the online backlash, Reese’s achievement is undeniably impressive, showcasing her consistent performance throughout the season. Setting a WNBA rookie record is no small feat, and it reflects her potential to become one of the league’s future stars. Yet, the mixed reactions highlight the fine line athletes walk between personal success and team dynamics, particularly in high-stakes games.
As Reese continues to develop in her rookie season, this experience may serve as a learning moment, reminding her of the importance of balancing individual goals with the needs of her team. In the competitive world of professional sports, every decision on the court is subject to public scrutiny, and Friday’s game was a stark reminder of that reality.
