What a month it has been for Atlanta Dream’s forward, Angel Reese! On August 20, Reese made WNBA history with her amazing performance in the Atlanta Dream versus Los Angeles Sparks game. By the end of the night, Reese had contributed 20 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and three steals.
Breaking WNBA History
What set Reese’s performance apart from previous games was the combination of her 20 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and the fact that she didn’t miss a single shot during live play. No player prior to her has been able to accomplish a performance such as Reese’s. She also became the third player in the WNBA to achieve a 20-point double-double. This means she successfully scored 20 or more points, assisted or rebounded at least 10, and made all of her shots from the floor.
Reese broke her career scoring record versus the Phoenix Mercury team. Her previous best was a total of 27 points in a single game, and on August 23, Reese scored 31 points and had 14 rebounds. ESPN stated, “…during her [Reese] time in Atlanta, she has continued to break record after record, set milestone after milestone…What more can we say?” Her skills continue to be talked about as Reese fights to play her best.
Reese’s Upbringing and Introduction to Basketball
Reese grew up in Randallstown, Maryland, with her younger brother and her single mother. According to Revolt, Reese began playing basketball when she was only four years old. As a child, her mother got her involved in a youth basketball program. Her love for basketball bloomed as she moved from the University of Maryland to Louisiana State University. She swiftly became known as the “Bayou Barbie” thanks to fans all over the world.
Reese began her WNBA career in 2024 when she was drafted to play on the Chicago Sky team. As a rookie, Reese came out with loads of energy and made the WNBA All-Star team in 2024 and 2025. Prior to the 2026 season, Reese was traded to the Atlanta Dream team, and her evolving abilities speak for themselves as she continues to break records.
Her Impact on Younger Female Athletes
Reese commonly embraces her femininity while combining her athleticism and determination. She is a great role model for younger athletes as she proves that you can be an athlete while remaining feminine. Thanks to female athletes like Reese, younger girls see that they no longer have to hide their girly interests in order to be a successful athlete.
Reese’s bold attitude and grit inspire younger female athletes to stay true to themselves, whether on or off the court. Although Reese is occasionally perceived as spiteful due to her rivalry with Caitlin Clark, her fans view her as a cultural catalyst. Reese continues to change the game for female athletes.
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