Angel Reese Says She Was ‘Scared’ Entering WNBA, Veterans Helped Her Feel Comfortable

Zach BacharContributor ISeptember 26, 2024

Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese revealed that she was fearful as she entered the WNBA with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 draft.

Reese discussed her adjustment to the league during the latest episode of her podcast, Unapologetically Angel, with special guest and WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes.

“When I came into the league, I was scared,” she admitted (19:33 mark). “I’m not somebody to be scared, but I was just scared. I didn’t think nobody was going to like me because of everything coming in. I just thought they were just going to treat me like crap.”

However, Reese revealed that veteran players such as Los Angeles Sparks forward Dearica Hamby and Dallas Wings forward Satou Sabally made her feel comfortable and alleviated her fears.

“I met a whole bunch of vets and they made me feel really welcome,” Reese said. “That’s what changed my whole thing and made me feel really comfortable in this league.”

After an impressive four-year college career that included a national title in 2023 at LSU, the 22-year-old didn’t take long to adjust to the WNBA. While her shooting efficiency fluctuated, she was able to remain a consistent force on the glass.

She averaged 13.1 rebounds in addition to her 13.6 points per game, setting a new WNBA single-season rebounding record. Reese also earned an All-Star nod as well as the June Rookie of the Month award.

Even though her season ended earlier than expected due to a wrist injury, she still wrapped up a historic rookie campaign and looked comfortable on the court while doing so.