The Chicago Sky star shares how a tough preseason matchup against this player pushed her to elevate her game
Angel Reese Gets Real: ‘I Got Cooked’ by Napheesa Collier in First WNBA Game
In a candid moment on her podcast “Unapologetically Angel,”WNBA rookie sensation Angel Reese didn’t shy away from her first taste of professional hoops. The LSUstandout, known for her swagger and dominance on the court, took a slice of humble pie during a preseason clash against none other than Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier. And if there’s one thing Reese knows how to do, it’s keep it real.
Reese revealed that Collier, a WNBA All-Star and seasoned vet, didn’t just outplay her-she “cooked” her. “Napheesa cooked me, I’m not gone lie,” Reese admitted, flashing back to that May 3rd game. It wasn’t just any matchup-it was Reese’s first-ever game in the WNBA. A welcome-to-the-league moment that, by her own account, had her questioning just how rough her rookie journey might be.
The stats told part of the story. While Reese put up a respectable 13 points and grabbed nine boards, Collier was on another level, dropping 17 points with an absurdly efficient 7-of-9 from the field. The lesson? Sometimes even the best of the best get humbled.
But if you think that rough start shook Reese’s confidence, think again. The 6-foot-3 forward didn’t just learn from the experience-she’s come back swinging, dominating the league in her own right. Now averaging a double-double with13.3 points and a league-leading 13.2 rebounds per game, Reese is proving she’s here to stay.
Angel Reese emerges as defensive powerhouse after humbling start
Her defensive chops have been just as impressive. Matching up against elite talent like Collier has only sharpened her game, and Reese is now a defensive force, swiping 1.3 steals per game while guarding multiple positions with ease. It’s safe to say that “cooked” isn’t on the menu for future matchups.
In just her first year, Reese has established herself as a dominant force, not only securing her spot on the WNBA All-Star roster but also emerging as the Chicago Sky’s most reliable player. She’s started every single game for the team, a rare feat for any rookie.
At just 22, Angel Reese has already tasted defeat, redemption, and success in the league, and if her early stumbles are any indication, the rest of the WNBA better be ready. Because the next time Angel Reese steps on the court, the only thing getting “cooked” might just be her competition.
