On Sunday, the Chicago Sky achieved a thrilling 92-85 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks, largely due to Angel Reese’s remarkable performance. Reese showcased her talents by nearly securing a triple-double, finishing the game with 24 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists in a robust 38-minute stint. Entering the game as the WNBA leader in rebounds, with an impressive average of 12.3, she continued her dominance on the boards, marking her fourth consecutive game with at least 16 rebounds. This match also highlighted her impressive consistency, as it was her fourth straight double-double and her 36th in just 50 career games.
In terms of scoring, Reese had a standout day, achieving a season-high 24 points through efficient shooting—10-of-19 from the field, in addition to converting all four of her free throw attempts. Off the defensive end, she contributed significantly with two blocks and one steal, showcasing her all-around skill set. Her ability to impact both ends of the court proved crucial in securing the win for the Sky in a high-scoring affair.
Reese’s success didn’t overshadow the contributions from her teammates. Guard Ariel Atkins provided critical support, scoring 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting. Meanwhile, Rachel Banham added 13 points with four assists, and Elizabeth Williams contributed 12 points, alongside nine rebounds and three steals. This collaborative effort from the starting five was integral to the Sky’s offensive strategy and success during the match.
The bench players also made significant contributions, particularly Kia Nurse, who netted three three-pointers and totaled 14 points. The diverse scoring options from the entire roster not only alleviated pressure on Reese but also kept the Sparks’ defense guessing throughout the game. Their collective performance underlined the Sky’s strong team dynamics, which are essential for competing at such a high level in the WNBA.
On the opposing side, the Sparks struggled with shooting efficiency, particularly from star point guard Kelsey Plum. While she excelled at the free-throw line, going a perfect 12-for-12, she struggled from the field, converting only 4-of-16 shots, including 2-of-9 from beyond the arc, contributing 22 points in total. Despite her challenges, she managed to provide seven assists and five rebounds, helping her team stay competitive throughout the match.
Additionally, Dearica Hamby played well for the Sparks, recording a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Azura Stevens contributed 17 points along with six rebounds and four assists. The Sparks’ effort and resilience were evident, but ultimately, the Sky’s well-rounded team performance led them to victory, as they continue to build momentum in the season.
