Did anyone expect this one?
In a dramatic showdown in the WNBA, Angel Reese led the Chicago Sky to an exhilarating 88-87 comeback victory against the Indiana Fever, marking her first professional win over Caitlin Clark. Reese’s standout performance, which included a career-high 25 points and 16 rebounds, was crucial in overturning a 15-point deficit in the second half. This game was particularly significant as Reese extended her record for consecutive double-doubles as a rookie to eight games.
ANGEL REESE TODAY
• 25 POINTS
• 16 REBOUNDS
• 8/12 FGFirst rookie with 25 points and 15 rebounds since 2018 A’ja Wilson!
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) June 23, 2024
The game, held on Sunday, saw the Sky execute a decisive 31-15 run in the last 11 minutes, with Reese matching the entire Fever team in points and field goals during this crucial period. Her pivotal play included a tied game at 82 points following an offensive rebound and a successful putback. Reese then secured the win for Chicago with a driving layup in the final minute, showcasing her critical role in the game’s outcome.
Despite Clark’s impressive performance, which included tying the record for most assists by a rookie in a double-double performance and 17 points, she was unable to score in the final seven minutes of the game. Clark praised Reese’s performance and acknowledged the physicality of the Sky’s play, which was a significant factor in the game’s outcome.
The @chicagosky defeats the Fever at HOME for the first time this season, 88-87, in an absolute nail-bitter 🤯
Angel Reese posted a career-high of 25 PTS and 16 REB in the WIN, followed by Chennedy Carter’s 23 PTS and 5 AST 🔥#WelcometotheW pic.twitter.com/x3pc57nwXf
— WNBA (@WNBA) June 23, 2024
The matchup between Reese and Clark, both prominent rookies and former college adversaries, drew significant attention and filled the stands at Wintrust Arena. The game attracted a high-profile audience, including celebrities and sports figures, highlighting the growing interest and support for women’s basketball. Ticket prices averaged $351, and the game was one of the season’s most anticipated, underscoring the heightened public and media interest in this rivalry.
They might be the most lit duo on the planet right about now 🌎
Angel Reese went off for a career-high 25 PTS and secured 16 REB while Chennedy Carter added in 23 PTS
Both Reese and Carter shot 66.7% from the field #WelcometotheW pic.twitter.com/hL8fhIGy91
— WNBA (@WNBA) June 23, 2024
Despite the Fever’s loss and the end of their four-game winning streak, the atmosphere was described as a historic moment for women’s basketball, praised by both players and fans for its intensity and significance. Reese and other players reflected on the impact of such games on the sport, emphasizing the importance of continuing to showcase women’s basketball at such a high level. Both teams appreciated the competitive spirit and the milestone it represented in promoting women’s sports.
Major Points:
- Angel Reese led the Chicago Sky to an 88-87 comeback victory against the Indiana Fever, marking her first professional win over Caitlin Clark with a career-high 25 points and 16 rebounds.
- Reese’s performance included a key role in the Sky’s 31-15 run in the final quarter, tying the game and then securing the lead with a crucial layup.
- Caitlin Clark contributed significantly with 17 points and a rookie-record-tying 13 assists, although she did not score in the final seven minutes of the game.
- The game attracted notable attention with high ticket prices and celebrity attendance, highlighting the growing prominence of women’s basketball.
- The match not only ended the Fever’s four-game winning streak but also marked a celebratory moment in women’s sports, showcasing the competitive and entertaining quality of the WNBA.
Al Santana – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
