Angel Reese, sidelined from her rookie WNBA season due to a wrist injury, is gearing up for her return in Unrivaled. However, her off-court dynamic with former Chicago Sky teammate Marina Mabrey has kept fans talking.
Mabrey, who made a mid-season move to the Connecticut Sun, recently reunited with Reese at the Rose Basketball Club, sparking conversations about their evolving friendship and the trade drama that followed Mabrey’s exit.
Mabrey’s unexpected trade to the Connecticut Sun just before the Olympic break raised eyebrows, with some speculating her decision was tied to a rift with Reese.
“Marina, did you leave Chicago because of me?” Reese asked on an Instagram Live.
Laughing, Mabrey quickly shot down the speculation.
“No. I love Angel. The real ones know,” Mabrey responded.
The two shared a lighthearted moment, complete with hand-heart gestures and giggles. Reese even asked Mabrey to twerk on camera, a request that Mabrey gamely fulfilled, showcasing the playful bond they’ve developed since their time as teammates.
Friendship takes time to bloom
Despite their current camaraderie, the friendship between Reese and Mabrey may not have formed instantly. A video from August 23 showed the Sky and Sun squads winding down after a game, marking Mabrey’s first matchup against her former team. While many players exchanged hugs and farewells, Reese and Mabrey notably kept their distance, walking in opposite directions without interaction.
However, Mabrey has since been vocal about her admiration for Reese.
“Angel’s personality is great. She’s always having fun. She’s kind of contagious with her energy,” Mabrey added.
Mabrey has consistently emphasized that her trade request stemmed from organizational issues within the Sky, not personal conflicts.
Her recent interactions with Reese have silenced critics, showcasing a genuine bond between the two. Reese even teased Mabrey about her dance skills after the Sun player posted a video of herself dancing.
“Marina, I think you can do better.”
As Reese prepares for Unrivaled and Mabrey thrives with the Sun, their friendship is a testament to overcoming rumors and embracing mutual support-both on and off the court.