Angel Reese, at just 23 years old, has solidified her standing in the WNBA by becoming the quickest player to reach 500 points and 500 rebounds in league history. She achieved this feat recently during the Chicago Sky’s game against the Mercury, marking a significant milestone in her career and spotlighting her as one of the league’s premier talents. This accomplishment highlights why the focus keyword
“Angel Reese fastest to 500 points and rebounds milestone”
has gained substantial attention.
Dominance on the Boards Defines Reese’s Game
Rebounding is a foundation of Reese’s impact on the court. Leading the WNBA in 2024 with an average of 13.1 rebounds per game, she is poised to surpass even that mark this year. Her relentless ability to snag boards anchors the Chicago Sky’s efforts and underscores her importance to the team. The significance of this milestone grows as Reese continues to elevate her performance.
The Impact of the Reese and Clark Rivalry
Angel Reese’s career has not only been defined by her statistics but also by a fierce rivalry with Caitlin Clark, which began during the 2023 NCAA title game when Reese’s taunt drew intense criticism. Their competitive tension remains palpable, recently reignited in the opening game of the 2025 WNBA season when a physical play resulted in a Flagrant-1 foul against Clark. Reese’s angry reaction further fueled their ongoing feud.
Clark defended her foul as a necessary play to prevent an easy basket by Reese, illustrating the high stakes and intensity of their matchups. Their rivalry adds an emotional edge to WNBA games and keeps fans engaged while shining a light on the players’ contrasting styles and competitive fire.
Isiah Thomas Offers Respect and Attention to Reese’s Achievements
Isiah Thomas, the former NBA star known for his gritty persona, publicly celebrated Reese’s 500-500 milestone on social media, signaling his respect for her talent and tenacity. Despite often expressing admiration for Clark and her role in boosting the league’s profile, Thomas acknowledged the importance of Reese’s impact and accomplishments.
“I actually, love the attention that Caitlyn has brought to the WNBA,”
—Isiah Thomas, NBA Legend
“I love the attention that women’s basketball is getting. But for too long the media hasn’t really shined a light on the WNBA, athletically and competitively.”
—Isiah Thomas, NBA Legend
Thomas’s endorsement carries weight given his history as a fiercely competitive player, making his support of Reese notable within basketball circles. While he has been openly critical of other NBA stars—such as LeBron James during a recent playoff series—he has yet to express any reservations about Reese’s style or presence on the court.
What Lies Ahead for Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky
The Chicago Sky currently struggles with a 0-4 record after their heavy defeat against the Fever, with whom Reese shares a heated rivalry through Clark. The two teams will face each other again on June 7, setting the stage for another intense showdown likely to attract significant attention within the WNBA. Reese’s recent recognition from Isiah Thomas adds to the anticipation surrounding this matchup and underscores her growing prominence.
As Reese continues to break records and fuel rivalries, her trajectory promises to shape the competitive landscape of the league. Her ability to combine skill, energy, and a confrontational edge makes her a compelling figure, both as a record-setter and as one of the WNBA’s most discussed players.