Follow us on Google Discover Angel Reese’s first season with the Atlanta Dream has led to her emergence as one of the elite two-way forwards in the WNBA.
Reese is averaging 16.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 1.8 steals this season, helping the Dream to a 26-14 record and a playoff spot in her first season with the franchise.
While her offensive skills can’t be ranked among the best for forwards, she clearly is one of the best defenders in the WNBA, and her team wants her to get the recognition she deserves.
The Atlanta Dream break down why Angel Reese should be the DPOY
The Dream used the FIBA break to remind everyone of Reese’s credentials as an All-WNBA and All-Defense player, as well as the Defensive Player of the Year.
“Follow the numbers to find your DPOY, All-WNBA, and All-Defense forward. First in total rebounds, rebounds per game, offensive rebounds, defensive rebounds, third in steals, and top five in defensive rating. And she’s still going. Tell a friend to tell a friend: Angel Reese is like that.”
Reese’s defensive activity has helped the Dream be one of the best defensive teams in the WNBA this season, and it’s been integral to the team’s success.
She ranks behind teammates Rhyne Howard and Jordin Canada in steals, and her 0.8 blocks per game don’t bring her close to the top rim protectors (28th in the WNBA).
Photo by Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
However, her switchability and size make her a dangerous help defender, which has been visible in all Dream games this season.
The franchise just reminded the voters of the same, in case they have made up their minds about the other candidates.
Angel Reese’s DPOY chances look unlikely
A’ja Wilson is the reigning DPOY and is currently expected to defend that crown, with Golden State Valkyries’ Gabby Williams as her closest challenger.
Reese’s teammate Howard is considered a more credible challenger for the award than Reese, so it’s admirable that the Dream are actively trying to get Reese the same love for the award.
Her credentials for All-Defense and All-WNBA are more believable, but Reese will have to be a far more productive defensive player to complement her incredible rebounding to be considered a threat in this award race.
Forwards are rated on their ability to protect the rim, and that, being arguably Reese’s biggest defensive weakness, could be an issue that’s insurmountable for the voters.
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