CHICAGO — The Chicago Sky snapped their four-game losing streak against Arike Ogunbowale and the Dallas Wings on Thursday before a sell-out crowd. Tenacious defense and offensive execution saw the Sky beat Dallas 83-72. Angel Reese continued her impressive double-double streak, making WNBA history.
The star rookie forward finished the game with 16 points, 18 rebounds, and two steals. Thus, she broke the WNBA's record for most consecutive double-doubles by a rookie (seven). Reese gave reporters a glowing immediate reaction after the incredible feat.
“I have so much [more room] to grow, and I'm just excited to be in this league,” Reese claimed with a wide smile, via ESPN.
Reese was all over the floor for the Sky on Thursday, literally. During the second quarter, the rookie forward saved a possession by diving for the ball, which turned into a corner three-pointer from Marina Mabrey. Reese dropped a truth bomb on what has allowed her to have a stout showing early on in the season.
“I just want to win. I came to Chicago to win. Luckily, I was drafted No. 7 and came to Chicago and [have been] able to thrive with great teammates, great coaches. There's a great atmosphere and culture here that really loves me, so that's what's important to me,” Reese said during the post-game press conference.
Reese is not done improving yet, but her early success is something Sky fans should be ecstatic about.
Angel Reese shares the wealth of her rare rookie success with the Sky
Reese continued to give those around her credit for her early ascent, noting a powerful message from head coach Teresa Weatherspoon.
“Being able to have a coach that came in and told me, ‘Don't worry about what number you were drafted at.' [Weatherspoon] told me ‘Believe in yourself. Surprise yourself before you surprise others,'” Reese revealed.
It is no secret that Angel Reese is fueled by gritty play. Reese's double-digit averages in rebounds and points in the paint evidence her ability to grind her opponents down. The rookie forward said she is not afraid to do the “dirty work” to help her team win.
“I'm trying to do the dirty work… I'll step in and get on my knees and mess up nails just for my teammates. I'm willing to do whatever for this team. I think every team needs somebody to just come in and be there for them and do the small things,” Reese added.
Reese's efforts helped the Sky quell Arike Ogunbowale and the Wings' attack. Ogunbowale finished the game with 31 points and shot 43 percent on three-pointers. Yet, the Wings could not overcome the Sky's pressing defense. Chicago forced 15 turnovers on Thursday.
Reese was not the only one who helped Chicago snap their cold streak. Chennedy Carter allowed the Sky to quickly gain momentum. She scored 15 points in the first half and finished the matchup with 19 on 80 percent shooting. Carter's newfound presence in the starting lineup seems to be helping the Sky flow better offensively.
Chicago improved to 5-9 with their victory over Dallas. Meanwhile, Arike Ogunbowale's squad fell to 3-11. The Sky turn their attention toward another marquee matchup against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on June 23rd.
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