In a remarkable display of talent and perseverance, Angel Reese, the standout rookie for the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx, has etched her name into the annals of basketball history.
Reese, a 6’3″ forward who was the second overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, achieved a historic milestone by recording double-doubles in her first ten professional games.
This feat has not only set a new rookie record but also positioned her as one of the most exciting new talents in the league.
Early Career and Draft Day Angel Reese entered the WNBA with high expectations following an illustrious college career at LSU. Her dominance on the court, characterized by her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and defensive tenacity, made her a consensus All-American and a finalist for several national player of the year awards. Reese’s collegiate performance was capped by leading LSU to the NCAA Championship game, where she delivered a standout performance that cemented her status as a top prospect.
Draft day was a culmination of Reese’s hard work and dedication. Selected second overall by the Minnesota Lynx, she joined a team looking to rebuild and reclaim its past glory.
Lynx fans and analysts alike were eager to see how Reese’s game would translate to the professional level.
Historic Start to the WNBA Career From her debut game, it was clear that Reese was not only ready for the WNBA but also prepared to make an immediate impact.
She opened her professional career with a 22-point, 14 rebound performance against the Phoenix Mercury, showcasing her ability to score efficiently and dominate the boards.
This impressive start was just a hint of what was to come.
Reese followed her debut with a series of games that highlighted her consistency and versatility. Over her first ten games, she averaged 18.5 points and 13.2 rebounds per game, earning double-doubles in each contest.
This streak set a new WNBA record for the most consecutive double-doubles to start a career, surpassing the previous record held by Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings.
Impact on the Lynx and the League Reese performance has been a bright spot for the Lynx, who have struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons.
Her ability to contribute on both ends of the floor has brought new energy to the team and provided a foundation for future success.
Reese’s rebounding has been particularly crucial, often giving the Lynx extra possessions and controlling the tempo of games.
Her historic run has not gone unnoticed by the league and fans. Reese has quickly become a fan favorite, known for her work ethic, charismatic personality, and dynamic playing style.
Her jersey sales have soared, and she has become a regular feature in highlight reels and social media discussions.Praise from Peers and Coaches Reese’s achievements have drawn praise from across the WNBA. Veteran players and coaches have lauded her maturity and readiness, noting that her transition from college to the professional ranks has been seamless.
Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve has been particularly vocal about Reese’s impact, describing her as a generational talent” and a leader both on and off the court. WNBA legends have also taken note. Tamika Catchings, whose record Reese broke, congratulated her publicly, calling her an “incredible talent and expressing excitement for her future.
Such endorsements from established figures in the sport highlight the respect and admiration Reese has earned in a short time.
Future Prospects With her historic start, Angel Reese has set the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary WNBA career.
As she continues to develop and refine her game, the sky is the limit for this young star. Reese’s journey is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and her success is inspiring a new generation of athletes.
For the Minnesota Lynx, Reese’s presence is a beacon of hope. Her ability to perform at such a high level early in her career suggests that she will be a cornerstone for the team for years to come. As the WNBA celebrates its continued growth and evolution, players like Angel Reese are at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in women’s basketball.In a league renowned for its competitive spirit and high-caliber talent, Angel Reese’s historic double-double streak stands out as a landmark achievement, heralding the arrival of a new superstar in the WNBA.
