Angel Reese made WNBA history on Monday night, setting two league records in a single game during the Atlanta Dream’s 78-71 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks at Crypto.com Arena.
Reese recorded 26 rebounds in the contest, breaking the WNBA single-game rebounding record previously held by Chamique Holdsclaw, who had 24 rebounds in 2003. Reese also surpassed A’ja Wilson’s 2024 season record of 451 rebounds by collecting her 452nd board in the game, finishing with 458 total rebounds for the season. The performance marked Reese’s 27th double-double of the season, as she finished with 11 points, 26 rebounds, and three assists in 38 minutes.
The Dream improved to 25-13 on the season, positioning themselves among the top five teams competing for playoff positioning.
Rebounding Dominance and Team Impact
Reese’s performance was characterized by her relentless pursuit of missed shots, including eight offensive rebounds despite shooting just 4-of-14 from the field. Her ability to secure second-chance opportunities was a key factor in the Dream’s victory, as she outrebounded her teammates 26-22.
Teammate Allisha Gray praised Reese’s rebounding prowess, stating, “I don’t think in my life I got more than 10 rebounds in my life. That’s just a talent. I’m just in awe watching her rebound.” Gray added that Reese’s tenacity on the boards has left her teammates impressed throughout the season.
Reese addressed her historic night in postgame remarks, emphasizing her focus on contributing to the team’s success. “Anything that goes up is mine. You just have to have that mindset,” she told reporters. Reese also credited watching WNBA legends like Tina Charles, stating she aspires to join their ranks.
League-Leading Season
In her third WNBA season, Reese has established herself as one of the league’s premier rebounders. She currently leads the league in rebounding with 12.0 rebounds per game, a mark that ranks among the top three single-season totals in WNBA history. Reese previously set a WNBA rookie record with 13.1 rebounds per game in 2024 and holds the league record for 15 straight double-doubles in a single season.
Her 458 rebounds this season surpass the previous record of 451 set by Wilson in 2024, further cementing her place in WNBA history. The Dream’s win over the Sparks, featuring retiring legend Nneka Ogwumike with 16 rebounds, underscored Reese’s impact on both ends of the court.