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Shaquille O'Neal Angel Reese (Source: NBC Sports)
When Angel Reese joined the WNBA, some questioned if her game would transition from the collegiate level to the professional ranks. Throughout the first half of the 2024 season, the Chicago Sky forward has transformed that scepticism into a record-breaking season. NBA star Shaquille O'Neal is thrilled that Reese has utilised scepticism to propel her achievement.
O'Neal, who has built a close friendship with Reese in recent years, spoke on ESPN to discuss the rookie's performance in Chicago. He expressed what he liked best about Angel Reese's game and demeanour.
As per Fastbreak "She made the comment the other day she was born like this, and it's true. Her mentality, the way she plays — no-nonsense, she's going to say what's on her mind, going to play the way she plays," O'Neal said.
"I love that about her. When I first met her, we had a little challenge thing, she said she could outshoot me. I said, 'No, you can't outshoot me.' I've been a fan ever since then. She's won a championship. She's the type that, if you doubt her, she's going to step up and play."
In Chicago's first 24 games, Reese has averaged 13.5 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. She set a new WNBA record by registering a double-double in 15 straight games. She has 17 double-doubles this season.
Angel Reese set to win WNBA Rookie of the Year award
In her first 22 games, Reese recorded 16 double-doubles. Because of the performance of Reese and fellow rookie and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, there has been a lot of discussion surrounding the WNBA Rookie of the Year award. O'Neal shared his opinion on the competition.
There is still a lot of basketball to be played, but you could easily make the case for either player right now. And both have received recognition for their early accomplishment. Reese and Clark are both travelling to Phoenix to take part in the WNBA All-Star Game in 2024. They will also be playing for the same squad for the first time in their professional careers.