Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky are set to face the Phoenix Mercury this Saturday at the Footprint Center, where Reese will take on the significant task of guarding Alyssa Thomas. This matchup presents one of the toughest defensive challenges in the WNBA, testing Reese’s ability to contain a versatile star known for her all-around impact.
Reese welcomes the opportunity, viewing it as a chance to learn from the seasoned six-time All-WNBA honoree. Thomas gave Reese a “welcome to the league” moment earlier this season in May 2024, making this much-anticipated rematch even more compelling.
Alyssa Thomas’ Multifaceted Impact on the Court
Alyssa Thomas plays a comprehensive role for the Phoenix Mercury, averaging 14.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and leading the league with 9.0 assists per game. Over her 11 seasons with the Connecticut Sun, Thomas has excelled in every aspect of the game, leading the league in rebounding in 2023 and steals in 2020. She was also a runner-up for both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in 2023.
Her leadership and versatile skill set make her a formidable opponent on both ends of the floor, posing a unique defensive problem for Reese and the Sky.
Angel Reese on Defensive Priorities Against Thomas
Reese shared her thoughts on containing Thomas ahead of the game.
“Stopping her scoring, you can do that,”
Reese said,
“but being able to slow her down for her assists (is important).”
In their first meeting this season, Thomas contributed 10 points and a season-high 15 assists, along with seven rebounds, three steals, and two blocks, leading Phoenix to a 94-89 comeback win over Chicago.
“She gets the ball out to players and does a great job,”
Reese praised, adding,
“Obviously I look at that and try to do some of those things too in my game.”
Angel Reese’s Growing Role as a Playmaker and Defender
While Reese’s skills as a point forward and her defensive influence have not yet reached Thomas’ elite level, she has made notable progress, especially since Chicago lost veteran point guard Courtney Vandersloot to a season-ending knee injury. Reese’s development has helped ease the team’s playmaking demands.
Reese, 23, recently recorded her first career triple-double in a victory against Connecticut, demonstrating her expanding all-around contributions. She stands as the only player currently averaging a double-double in the WNBA, with 11.0 points and 11.7 rebounds per game, while her assists per game have nearly doubled from her rookie average, now at 3.6.
Implications for the Upcoming Matchup
This Saturday’s contest will serve as a measuring point for Reese’s defensive growth against a player who excels across multiple statistical categories. The outcome could influence Chicago’s defensive strategies going forward, especially with the absence of key players like Vandersloot.
Reese’s ability to contain Thomas’ playmaking and scoring will be critical in the tightly contested WNBA Eastern Conference matchup, potentially impacting the Sky’s playoff positioning as the season advances.