In a bold statement that epitomizes her fierce determination, Angel Reese declared, “I want them to come at me every day.” The Chicago Sky rookie, who recently stated her desire to be “knocked down and learn and grow at the next level,” is proving her resilience on the court, even in the face of adversity.
Reese faced a significant challenge during the Sky’s 86-82 loss to the Connecticut Sun. In the third quarter, veteran player Alyssa Thomas delivered a clothesline to Reese’s neck while they battled for a rebound. The forceful contact sent Reese crashing to the floor, resulting in Thomas receiving her first-ever flagrant foul 2 and an immediate ejection from the game.
Despite the harsh play, Reese maintained her composure and perspective, emphasizing that the incident was simply part of the game. “It’s not just because I’m a rookie. I’m a player. I’m a basketball player,” Reese stated, as reported by The Athletic. “They don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. I mean, I want them to come at me every day. I want them to come at everybody.”
Alyssa Thomas should be totally embarrassed on what she did to Angel Reese.
pic.twitter.com/NeiZXwolh1— BullsKickAss (@Bullskickass) May 26, 2024
Reese thanked Thomas for the play
The Chicago forward’s comments underline her belief that she should be treated like any other player on the court, without any special consideration due to her rookie status.
“They’re not supposed to be nice to me. I hope y’all know that. They’re not supposed to be nice to me or lay down because I’m Angel Reese or because I’m a rookie,” she asserted. “Thank you AT for sending a message to me because I got back up and I kept going and kept pushing.”
Interestingly, Reese and Thomas share a connection, having both attended the University of Maryland. Despite the rough encounter, Reese harbors no ill will towards Thomas. “Me and AT have been cool since we were at Maryland so I know it’s no hard feelings. I appreciate her for going at me today or every day,” Reese added, reinforcing her respect for the veteran player.
Angel Reese on that hard foul by Alyssa Thomas which led to an ejection: “They don’t give a damn if I’m a rookie. … They’re not supposed to be nice to me. … Thank you AT for sending a message to me because I got back up and I kept going.” pic.twitter.com/tZUsMjSm8g
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) May 26, 2024
No hard feelings: Reese
Reese had expressed her admiration for Thomas before the game, noting her influence as a WNBA star. The incident could have tainted her view, but Reese remained steadfast in her admiration. “No hard feelings to AT,” she reiterated.
I know she probably didn’t do it towards me on purpose, but just being able to come out there and be strong and stand on two feet, it was going to be a tough game and that’s what I’m built for,” asserted the former LSU Tiger.
Reese’s ability to bounce back and maintain her focus amidst such challenges is a testament to her strength and determination. As she continues to navigate her rookie season, it’s clear that Angel Reese is ready to face whatever comes her way, head-on.
