Angel Reese Prioritizes Impact Over Records in the WNBA

Chicago Sky rookie sensation Angel Reese has made headlines with her candid revelation about her goals in the WNBA, emphasizing that breaking records is not her primary focus. In an exclusive interview with ESPN on August 20, 2025, the 23-year-old forward declared, “I don’t really care about records. I want to make a difference—for my team, for women’s basketball, and for the next generation.” Her statement, delivered ahead of a Sky matchup against the Las Vegas Aces, underscores her ambition to leave a lasting legacy beyond statistics.

Reese, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has already turned heads in her debut season, averaging 13.6 points and 12.0 rebounds per game, placing her among the league’s top rebounders. Despite breaking the WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles (15) earlier this season, a mark previously set by Candace Parker, Reese dismissed the significance of such milestones. “Records are cool, but they’re just numbers,” she told ESPN. “I’m here to win games, lift my teammates, and show young girls they can dream big in this league.”

Her focus on impact stems from her journey as a trailblazer. A standout at LSU, where she led the Tigers to the 2023 NCAA Championship, Reese has become a cultural figure, known for her unapologetic confidence and advocacy for women’s sports. Her influence extends off the court, with endorsement deals, a growing social media presence of over 3 million followers, and her podcast, Unapologetically Angel. On X, fans praised her mindset, with one user writing, “Angel Reese is about changing the game, not chasing stats. That’s why she’s different” (@WNBAFanatic).

Reese’s comments also reflect her response to the pressures of being a rookie in a league spotlighted by stars like Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson. She emphasized team success over individual accolades, noting, “I want the Sky to be a championship contender. I want to help build a culture where we all thrive.” The Sky, currently fifth in the WNBA standings with a 12-14 record, have leaned on Reese’s rebounding prowess and defensive intensity, though injuries to key players have tested their depth.

Beyond the court, Reese aims to inspire. She spoke about her work with young athletes through her foundation, saying, “I want girls to see someone who looks like me dominating and know they can too.” Her commitment to mentorship and community engagement has drawn comparisons to WNBA legends like Lisa Leslie. As the season progresses, Reese’s focus remains on elevating the Sky and amplifying the league’s visibility, a goal she reiterated on X: “It’s bigger than me. It’s about the WNBA growing” (@Reese10Angel).

Reese’s refreshing perspective, prioritizing impact over records, signals her intent to redefine success in the WNBA, cementing her as a transformative figure in the sport.