Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky has emerged as a standout player in the league, demonstrating significant progress this season. Recognizing the need to elevate her game further, Reese sought guidance and received support from Napheesa Collier, a trusted mentor who has played a crucial role in her development.
The connection between Reese and Collier has strengthened recently, and their hard work together is evident in Reese’s improved performance on the court. While Collier’s own career has faced challenges, Reese has steadily advanced, especially when facing the Minnesota Lynx.
Marked Improvement from Rookie to Sophomore Season
From her rookie year to now, Reese’s advancement has been substantial. Against the Lynx—Collier’s team—Reese has maintained impressive averages, scoring 15.8 points, pulling down 14 rebounds, and dishing out 3.2 assists over six games. Collier expressed pride in Reese’s achievements while humorously hoping Reese would ease up against her own team.
“I want you to develop, but maybe not against us,” —Napheesa Collier, Mentor and Minnesota Lynx Player
Reese continues to solidify her reputation as a double-double force, having just earned her second straight All-Star selection. This sophomore campaign marks one of the best performances of her career, underscoring her growing impact in the league.
Chicago Sky’s Team Challenges Amid Reese’s Individual Success
Despite Reese’s personal victories, the Chicago Sky have struggled this season, standing 7-17 and well below .500. The team’s difficulties make playoff aspirations unlikely at this point in the year. Even so, Reese’s progress remains a bright spot for the franchise and its fans.
The contrast between Reese’s growth and the team’s record highlights the complexity of the season. Her continued improvement offers hope for both her future and the Sky’s potential turnaround down the line.
Mentorship and Passing on Experience
Collier takes great satisfaction in having helped Reese develop into the player she is becoming. She embraces the role of supporting younger talent and feels fortunate to contribute to Reese’s journey. Collier’s encouragement reflects a larger commitment to fostering the next generation of players.
“That’s what it’s about, just paying it forward. Especially helping the younger generation to develop, to get better. I want her to develop her game, I want her to get better and better because she’s so talented. To be a small part of that, for her to feel like I’m helping her, I feel really grateful that I got to be a part of that process.” —Napheesa Collier, Mentor and Minnesota Lynx Player
What Lies Ahead for Angel Reese and the Sky
Angel Reese’s massive improvement signals a promising trajectory not only for her individual career but also for the Chicago Sky’s future prospects. While the current season has been difficult, Reese’s development provides a foundation on which the team can build. As she continues to mature and refine her skills, supporters will watch eagerly for the impact she can have in the seasons ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What caused Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Reese shared in a TikTok video that she injured her hand after falling while getting the and-1. She explained that there’s a small bone crack. The doctors informed her she could choose whether to have surgery or not.
Q. Did Angel Reese get a degree?
A. Reese studied interdisciplinary studies at Louisiana State University and focused on communications when attending the University of Maryland, College Park.
Q. What was Angel Reese’s injury?
A. Angel Reese had a tough night because she couldn’t play in the game against Seattle on Thursday. Right before the game, the team decided she couldn’t participate because of a back injury. It’s not clear when her back started to hurt.
Q. What did Angel Reese’s parents do?
A. Angel comes from a family of basketball players; both of her parents played the sport in college. Her mom even went pro in Luxembourg. In January 2023, Angel told Just Women’s Sports, “She’s always been independent and passed that trait on to me.”