At some point, we need to stop talking about Angel Reese simply as one of the most promising young players in the WNBA.
Because what we’re witnessing right now is something special.
On Monday night, Reese delivered an incredible performance, finishing with 30 points and 16 rebounds as the Atlanta Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries 79–65 in Game 2 of the WNBA Finals.
The victory tied the championship series at 1–1 and gave Atlanta its first Finals win in franchise history.
But here’s what makes this performance even more impressive.
Reese became the youngest player in WNBA history to record at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in a Finals game.
And I genuinely believe we’re watching the development of a future top-three player in women’s basketball.
Angel Reese Is Becoming More Than Just a Rebounder
For years, the biggest criticism surrounding Reese has been her offensive game.
People questioned her efficiency, her ability to finish around the basket, and whether she could develop into a legitimate scoring threat.
But look at what she’s accomplishing now.
During the 2026 regular season, Reese averaged 16.4 points and 12.1 rebounds per game, leading the WNBA in rebounding.
But what impressed me most about Monday’s performance wasn’t simply the 30 points.
It was how efficiently she scored.
Reese shot 10-of-16 from the field against one of the best defensive teams in basketball.
She attacked mismatches, finished through contact, and even knocked down a three-pointer.
That’s the kind of offensive development critics have been waiting to see.
And if Reese continues improving her scoring efficiency, her ceiling becomes incredibly high.
She’s Already One of the Best Defensive Players in Basketball
Here’s what separates Reese from so many other young stars.
She doesn’t need to score 25 points to dominate a game.
Reese is already the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year.
She also earned First Team All-Defensive honors and finished third in the league with 1.8 steals per game.
And here’s another impressive statistic.
Atlanta allowed 7.9 fewer points per 100 possessions with Reese on the floor during the regular season.
That’s an enormous impact.
I’ve previously discussed why Reese deserves to be the cornerstone of Atlanta’s franchise.
But I think we’re reaching a point where that argument is becoming undeniable.
Reese isn’t simply a great rebounder anymore. She’s becoming one of the most complete players in basketball.
What Would It Take for Reese to Become a Top 3 Player?
Now, I’m not saying Reese is already a top-three player in the WNBA.
Players like A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, and Napheesa Collier have established themselves among the league’s elite.
Reese still has work to do.
But I believe she’s on a legitimate path toward joining that conversation.
The biggest area for improvement is her offensive consistency.
Monday’s 10-of-16 shooting performance demonstrated what Reese is capable of when she’s decisive around the basket.
And if she continues developing her perimeter shot, defending her becomes even more difficult.
Imagine a player who can consistently score 20 points, grab 12 rebounds, defend multiple positions, and knock down open jumpers.
That’s a legitimate MVP candidate.
And at just 24 years old, Reese has plenty of time to reach that level.
Atlanta Might Have Found Its Next Superstar
Here’s my biggest takeaway.
Angel Reese isn’t simply putting up impressive individual numbers.
She’s helping Atlanta win.
The Dream finished the regular season with 30 victories, swept their first two playoff opponents, and now have an opportunity to win their first championship.
And Reese has been at the center of that success.
Her rebounding creates additional possessions.
Her defense disrupts opposing offenses.
And her offensive game continues to improve.
That’s what makes her future so exciting.
Angel Reese is already one of the most impactful players in the WNBA.
And if her offensive development continues, I believe it’s only a matter of time before she’s considered one of the three best players in basketball.
Atlanta might have its next all-time great.
