Angel Reese made a statement in her first WNBA season, averaging a phenomenal double-double of 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game. She became the first rookie in league history to lead the WNBA in rebounding and set the all-time rookie record with 446 rebounds in a single season, surpassing Sylvia Fowles‘ previous mark of 404. Although A’Ja Wilson eventually broke the record, Reese was on pace to surpass 500 rebounds before her season-ending injury. Her game, dominated by hustle, elite rebounding and defensive grit, has drawn comparisons to NBA legend Dennis Rodman. Beyond basketball, Reese’s outspoken personality and flair for fashion echo Rodman’s infamous off-court persona, albeit with her own modern twist.
Trinity Rodman is Jealous of Angel and Dennis
During an episode of the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy”Trinity Rodman, Dennis Rodman’s youngest daughter and a soccer star in her own right, was the stellar guest and commented about the relationship with his father. Trinity, who scored three goals to help the United States win gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, couldn’t help but get a little jealous when talking about Angel Reese. After seeing Angel arrive for a game wearing his dad’s jersey and posing for a photo with him, she admitted, “Damn, I wish that was me”. Trinity, who is the same age as Reese, chose soccer over basketball early on, a decision that led to her making history in the 2021 NWSL Draft as the youngest draft pick at 18 years old.
Despite Trinity’s lighthearted comment, her relationship with her father remains strained. She opened up about their disconnect, saying, “He’s not a dad. Maybe by blood, but nothing else.” While Dennis Rodman’s parenting style has come under scrutiny, Trinity’s success as an athlete speaks to the undeniable athletic genes that have been passed down. As one of the brightest young soccer stars, her career is flourishing, but it’s clear that the father-daughter relationship has room for healing.
As for the Reese and Dennis comparison, Angel is a long way from achieving what Rodman did. “The Worm” won five championships, two Defensive Player of the Year awards and also led the NBA in rebounds per game for a record seven consecutive years. Angel already led the NBA in rebounds per game last season with just six to go, easier said than done.
Angel Reese in the Unrivaled league
Angel Reese is now competing in the Unrivaled League, a new 3×3 basketball competition designed to showcase the best talent in a fast-paced, high-energy format where 36 WNBA players are participating. Reese’s team, “Rose,” has struggled in its first two games, losing both of its matches. However, the league’s regular season runs through March 10, giving Reese and her teammates plenty of time to turn things around. The playoffs, including the semifinals and finals, are set to finish on March 17, giving Reese another chance to shine on this innovative stage.