The only positive thing in the Chicago Sky’s 2025 season is the improvement shown by Angel Reese. The side is in 11th place with a disappointing 7-16 record. Keeping the injuries and availability of the players aside, the remaining roster failed to support their superstar, and the ‘haters’ slammed AR5 for the losses, mocking her impressive stats in the process.
But former WNBA champion and legend, Sheryl Swoopes, came up to show support for the Sky forward. She defended her high rebounding stats and called out those who criticized her massive numbers on the board.
WNBA Legend Sheryl Swoopes Stands By Angel Reese
The 2024 seventh overall pick is having a great season individually. Despite her team’s struggles, she set multiple records and earned the second All-Star call. But fans mocked her astonishing rebounding numbers as ‘MeBounds. ‘ Rebounding has been her stronghold throughout her career, and targeting it angered former WNBA Champion Sheryl Swoopes.
She defended the Chicago Sky forward and argued that Reese’s rebounding dominance resulted from other players not boxing her out effectively and that Reese is following her shot, a fundamental aspect of basketball.
“Aren’t you taught to go follow your shots and get your rebound? If you don’t want her to ger her own rebounds, box her out,” Sheryl Swoopes said in the podcast.
The second-year forward has been a focal point of discussion in the WNBA, with her substantial rebounding numbers and physical play drawing praise and criticism. Swoopes’ perspective emphasizes that Reese is simply playing smart basketball and capitalizing on opportunities other players are not taking advantage of.
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NBA star Gilbert Arenas also supported Sheryl Swoopes’ views. He added that the player is only in her second season and will only improve. In the fourth year, she could have an 18-point and 22-rebound average and win the MVP award.
Angel Reese Is Getting Better Each Passing Game
The LSU star was never a high-scoring forward throughout her career. But she was an elite rebounder who helped the team in second-chance opportunities and also on the defensive end. Coach Kim Mulkey also praised the 2023 NCAA Champion for her gameplay and ability to inspire her teammates in tough situations.
“Angel is aware of where the ball’s coming off the rim. When her teammates shoot it, she is always positioning herself to do the offensive rebound,” The LSU coach said as she attended the Chicago Sky’s pre-season game.
The story continued for the first season, yet she managed to record a double-double average with just over 13 points and 13 rebounds per game. In her sophomore season, though, the star maintained her rebounding flair. Most importantly, she upped her shooting efficiency, making her a more lethal weapon on the court. Her shooting efficiency improved by 7%, while the three-point accuracy also improved by 9%.
Many analysts also acknowledged the massive growth AR5 showed in her second pro year. Well, The Sky might need some assistance for their prized asset before it’s too late and the Chi Town Barbie moves to any other franchise.
Also Read: Angel Reese Nears One-Game Suspension Despite WNBA Rule Change As Technical Fouls Mount