Chicago Sky’s rising star Angel Reese is trading wrist wraps for weight racks this offseason, gearing up for the debut of the Unrivaled League. With the league’s inaugural tip-off just a month away in Miami, Reese is laser-focused on elevating her game—and apparently, her squats.
After a promising rookie campaign was cut short by a wrist injury, Reese is back with a vengeance. A recent video posted on X (formerly Twitter, for those still catching up) shows Reese pounding out reps with a barbell that looks like it was borrowed from a powerlifting meet. Her focus? Lower body strength, the bread and butter of any elite low-post player—especially in a 3-on-3 format like Unrivaled, where quick, powerful plays in the paint are the name of the game.
The Reese Redemption Tour
Critics have long called out Reese for her inconsistent finishing around the rim, a critique that followed her from her college days to her first season in the WNBA. But Reese, never one to back down from a challenge, appears to be turning that noise into fuel.
Unrivaled offers her the perfect stage to refine her post moves, especially since she’ll be going toe-to-toe with some of the WNBA’s best. Translation: no room for “almost finishes.” She’ll be competing alongside and against stars like Chelsea Gray (yes, the former WNBA Finals MVP), Kahleah Copper, Brittney Sykes, and Azura Stevens. If Reese isn’t ready, they’ll let her know—on the scoreboard.
Living Her Best Life—South Beach Edition
Speaking on Lonzo Ball’s podcast What An Experience, Reese didn’t hold back her excitement for this new chapter. “I’m making six figures, I’m living in Miami during my offseason,” she said, as casually as someone announcing they got a free coffee on a punch card.
While fans dream of championship rings, Reese seems to be reveling in a different kind of bling: the Unrivaled paycheck. “I’m playing 34 of the best WNBA players, learning from vets, and working with coaches like T-Spoon and Phil,” she added, name-dropping legends like she’s reading off a VIP guest list.
Miami seems to agree with her. Reese has been spotted enjoying South Beach vibes, but don’t mistake her R&R for complacency—she’s got her eyes set on becoming a true force in the league.
Unrivaled Drama: Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese, Round Whatever
Speaking of drama, let’s talk about Caitlin Clark—because why not? The two headlined one of the WNBA’s most heated rivalries last season, a battle that lit up social media faster than a buzzer-beater. Toxic fanbases aside, Clark recently told TIME Magazine, “We’re not best friends, but we’re very respectful of one another.”
Translation? They’re not sharing playlists or brunch plans, but they’ll acknowledge each other at the All-Star Game. Clark, ever the sharpshooter, took a light jab: “When have I ever guarded her? And when has she guarded me?” Savage, but fair.
Fans, mark your calendars: Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever on opening night at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse is shaping up to be must-watch TV. Reese and Clark might not be besties, but their rivalry is the stuff sports legends are made of.
What’s Next?
Unrivaled’s 3-on-3 format promises high-octane action with only six teams, each packed with star power. Of the 33 announced players, Reese stands out—not just for her talent but for her grit and determination to silence the critics.
Kelsey Plum was supposed to join the party but decided to sit this one out, citing the need for “me time.” Fair enough, but with Reese ready to dominate, Plum’s absence might just be Reese’s gain.
As Jan. 17 approaches, one thing is clear: Angel Reese isn’t just playing basketball; she’s making a statement. And if her offseason grind is any indication, the Unrivaled League better brace itself—because Angel’s coming in hot, barbell and all.
