Chicago Sky’s rising star achieves an extraordinary milestone, breaking Candace Parker’s revered record.
In an electrifying showcase of talent and determination, Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky has solidified her place in WNBA history. The 22-year-old phenom set a new league record for the most consecutive games with a double-double in a single season, a feat achieved during Sunday’s hard-fought 70-62 defeat to the Minnesota Lynx. This marked Reese’s 10th consecutive game recording double figures in both points and rebounds, eclipsing the previous record held by WNBA legend Candace Parker.
Reese’s remarkable performance included 10 points and a staggering 17 rebounds, surpassing Parker’s nine consecutive double-doubles from the 2015 season with the Los Angeles Sparks. Remarkably, Parker was 29 and in her eighth season when she set her record, making Reese’s accomplishment at such a young age even more extraordinary.
With just over a minute remaining, Reese needed three points to secure her double-double. Displaying relentless grit, she rebounded her own missed shots in the paint, finally scoring with 40.1 seconds left on the clock. A loose ball foul with 23 seconds to go granted her two free throws. Despite missing the first, Reese coolly sank the second, cementing her place in the record books.
Reese’s Historic Feat Amidst Team Struggles
Sky coach Teresa Witherspoon expressed her pride in Angel Reese’s performance, emphasizing her commitment to the game. “I’m just really proud of her. Proud of her efforts and what she brings to the team,” Witherspoon remarked post-game. “I know she’d prioritize the team’s success over personal records. She’s consistent in her approach, always playing with intensity and confidence, giving her all in every game. She sets high standards for herself, which is admirable. I’m continually impressed by her dedication and achievements.”
Despite Reese’s historic achievement, the Sky fell to the Lynx. Chennedy Carter led the team with 15 points, while Lindsay Allen added 13. Rookie Kamilla Cardoso also made her presence felt with 10 rebounds. However, the Sky faltered in the fourth quarter, being outscored 18-5, and dropping to a 6-11 record for the season.
The Lynx, now holding a 14-4 record and tied with the Connecticut Sun for the league’s second-best record, were propelled by Kayla McBride’s 16 points. Napheesa Collier contributed significantly with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists.
Reese’s Career Just Getting Started
Although Candace Parker retains the WNBA’s record for the most consecutive double-doubles overall, totaling 12 during the 2009 and 2010 seasons, Angel Reese is rapidly closing in on this milestone. Earlier in her career, Reese already made waves by setting the rookie record with seven consecutive double-doubles, achieving this feat on June 20 against the Dallas Wings. This accomplishment surpassed previous benchmarks set by Tina Charles in 2010 and Cindy Brown in 1998, showcasing Reese’s early dominance and potential to challenge Parker’s longstanding record.
Tina Charles currently holds the rookie record for total double-doubles in a WNBA season with an impressive 22. Angel Reese, having already secured 11 double-doubles with 23 games left in the season, is well-positioned to vie for this record. Her consistent performance underscores her potential to match or even surpass Charles’ benchmark, further solidifying her impact in the league’s history books.
Next up for the Sky is a road game against the Atlanta Dream on Tuesday, while the Lynx will face off against the Phoenix Mercury on Monday night.
Angel Reese’s trailblazing path in the WNBA is a testament to her skill, perseverance, and unyielding drive, setting the stage for what promises to be a luminous career in professional basketball.
