Sky’s Reese first in WNBA with consecutive 20-rebound games

Angel Reese made history on Friday night by becoming the first WNBA player to achieve at least 20 rebounds in consecutive games.

The talented rookie, known for her rebounding skills throughout the season, scored 13 points and grabbed 20 rebounds in the Chicago Sky’s 82-80 defeat against the Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut. She then followed up with 19 points and 20 rebounds in an 86-68 loss to Phoenix on Sunday.

The last time an NBA rookie achieved back-to-back 20-rebound games was in April 1993 when Shaquille O’Neal of the Orlando Magic accomplished the feat against the Boston Celtics and Washington. O’Neal, who also played college basketball at LSU like Reese, has been a strong supporter of her. Reese played a key role in leading LSU to their first basketball national championship in 2023.

Reese recorded her 21st double-double of the WNBA season on Friday, leaving her just one behind Tina Charles for the most by a WNBA rookie. Charles achieved 22 double-doubles in 2010 while playing for Connecticut. With 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Sky still have a chance to make a playoff push.

Reese is currently averaging 12.6 rebounds and 13.6 points per game. However, the Sky, currently in eighth place, have lost three of their last four games since the WNBA resumed after the Olympic break. With a record of 11-17, they are clinging to a one-game lead for the final playoff spot over the Atlanta Dream, who also suffered an 82-80 loss to Phoenix on Friday.

Having played their last three games on the road, the Sky will now return home for their next three matches against Las Vegas, Washington, and Indiana.