BREAKING NEWS: Lisa Leslie Seeks New Star – Who Will Be the Most Outstanding Player in the WNBA?
In the recent WNBA season, no one can deny that Angel Reese, the forward for the Chicago Sky, had one of the most impressive starts among rookies. At just 22 years old, she managed to break the WNBA single-season record for rebounds, a record that Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson reclaimed just a few games later. However, a wrist injury forced her to stop midway through the season, but what Reese achieved is undeniable: she led the league with an average of 13.1 rebounds per game and ranked second among rookies with 13.6 points and a player efficiency rating of 17.6.
Perhaps the good news for Reese comes from a WNBA legend: Lisa Leslie. In a conversation on the Fast Friends podcast, Leslie expressed her desire to work with Reese this summer to help her develop and enhance her game. “I told Angel from the beginning that she would become a big star,” Leslie shared. “I knew she would have a season like this. She has so much potential to grow. I hope to work with Angel one day in the gym, to really help her reach that next level because I believe she absolutely can.”
It is undeniable that if Reese accepts the offer from a legend like Leslie, it would be a wise decision. With seven All-Star selections, three WNBA MVP awards, and two WNBA championships under her belt, Leslie possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge that Reese can tap into as she heads into her second season. Having Leslie in her corner will be very beneficial for the LSU alum, who is currently recovering from a wrist injury expected to take about six weeks to heal.
Although some have criticized Reese for “stat padding” during her rookie season, claiming that she intentionally missed shots to inflate her rebound numbers, Leslie disagrees with this viewpoint. “What critics are saying is that she’s getting a lot of her own missed shots as rebounds, which is true,” Leslie said. “However, she is still truly amazing. If you are playing defense against her and know she is going to do that, then it’s your responsibility. The fact that she can shoot and get her rebound back—that’s the opponent’s fault.”
With opportunities waiting ahead, Angel Reese and Lisa Leslie could create a formidable partnership that will make opponents wary. Who knows, the upcoming season could witness a completely new Angel Reese, thanks to the guidance and support from one of the greatest legends in WNBA history!