Angel Reese officially bid farewell to her rookie WNBA season in a heartfelt post ahead of the Chicago Sky’s final home game on Sunday, September 15. While the Sky fell to the Phoenix Mercury in a close 93-88 loss, Reese’s impact on her debut season was impossible to overlook, even from the sidelines. The 22-year-old forward, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a wrist injury that required surgery, took a moment to reflect on her journey via Instagram Stories.
“ROOKIE YEAR WAS ONE FOR THE BOOKS,” Reese wrote alongside a collage of photos showcasing her standout moments on the court throughout the 2024 season. It was a bittersweet message for both her and her fans, as Reese has been unable to join her team on the court for the final stretch of the season. She underwent surgery on her fractured left wrist on September 10 and is currently in recovery, with doctors estimating it will take six weeks for her to return to her regular activities.
Despite the setback, Reese’s rookie year was nothing short of historic. In just one season, she left a significant mark on the WNBA, making headlines and setting new records. One of her most notable accomplishments was breaking the record for the longest double-double streak in WNBA history, achieving 15 consecutive double-doubles. She also set the record for the most double-doubles by a rookie in a single season, racking up an incredible 24 before her injury.
Her stellar performances earned her a reputation as one of the league’s rising stars, and she was in serious contention for Rookie of the Year. However, Caitlin Clark’s phenomenal run in the second half of the season edged her into the leading spot for the award. Still, Reese’s consistency and ability to dominate on both ends of the floor made her one of the standout players of the 2024 rookie class.
Reese’s averages of 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game made her a key player for the Sky, and her absence has been deeply felt as the team battles for a playoff spot. The Sky currently sit in a precarious position.
