The USA Basketball entered the FBA World Cup qualifiers with six debutants, which is nearly half of the roster. Despite that, every player proved her selection and contributed heavily to the stunning 5-0 record in the competition. Incidentally, the rookies were at the top of the team’s stats sheet with Angel Reese leading in rebounds, Caitlin Clark in scoring and assists, and Paige Bueckers topping the steals numbers.
The Chicago Sky star, in particular, earned much love from fans who even named Reese USA Barbie following her team USA photoshoot, and also continued her dominance around the paint region, similar to her WNBA performances.
WNBA analyst Chiney Ogwumike was not happy with it, though, as recently she made a strong point for Reese’s defence.
Chiney Ogwumike Wants Recognition For Angel Reese’s Defense
During her debut competition for Team USA, Reese pointed out one key aspect that confirms success at the national level. On her side, she lived up to the standard she set and even led the competition in rebounds, despite playing fewer minutes and playing with foul trouble.
Reflecting on her performance for Team USA, Chiney Ogwumike said, “Angel Reese of course, I think her defense is so underrated, not just bout the rebounds. Everyone wants to talk about rebounds, it’s the fact that she can lock anybody up and get steals from anybody, one of the best defensive players, no matter where she is on the floor.”
New ESPN video of Chiney talking about Angel Reese’s defence pic.twitter.com/ROEpSNpK65
— AndFuckingOne (@andfuckingone) March 17, 2026
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Adding to her 40 rebounds stat, the player recorded five steals and three blocks in the competition, playing for 84 minutes, which is a commendable effort. Interestingly. She also had the highest number of fouls from Team USA, which was a result of her hard plays under the rim.
While the player made a name for herself controlling the board with her high rebound numbers, she is also one of the most influential athletes off the court too, with the highest number of followers.
Angel Reese Among Most Influential Female Athletes
Leading magazine ‘Complex’ released a list of the most influential female athletes in 2026. There were six WNBA stars in the list, highlighting the growth and influence of the female basketball players.
Angel Reese also made he list at the sixth position with her various movie projects, fashion shows, basketball career and also the success in the business world, making her one of the powerful athletes from the league.
Caitlin Clark and others are top influential female athletes now. More info: https://t.co/0DKXci63s0 pic.twitter.com/HvFRAIC1Q6
— Complex (@Complex) March 17, 2026
Other WNBA stars in the list include Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.