Although Angel Reese was unable to take the court in the Unrivaled playoffs, the star forward still found a way to be part of the celebration as Rose BC captured the league’s first-ever championship title.
Despite missing the postseason due to a wrist injury, Reese remained actively engaged, joining her teammates via FaceTime as they popped bottles of champagne following their victory.
Rose BC battled through a hard-fought playoff run, defeating the Laces 63-57 in the semifinals before taking down Vinyl BC 62-54 in the championship game.
Though she couldn’t contribute on the court, Reese had already made her mark in the regular season, earning Unrivaled Defensive Player of the Year honors and helping her team overcome a slow start to dominate late in the season.
Reese’s season cut short by injury
Reese‘s postseason absence came after she suffered a wrist injury in the regular-season finale on March 10. The setback was eerily similar to the injury she endured during her rookie WNBA season, which required surgery in September to repair a small fracture.
The injury was a significant blow, considering the 22-year-old had been a dominant force all season. She led the league in rebounds per game (12.1) and became the first player in Unrivaled history to record a 20-20 game.
Even while sidelined, her impact was undeniable, and her presence-whether physical or virtual-continued to motivate her teammates.
Joining the celebration from the skies
Though she couldn’t be at the game, Reese watched the championship matchup from the air, tuning in while on a flight back to Chicago.
Once Rose BC sealed the victory, she joined the team’s postgame press conference via FaceTime, ensuring she could still take part in the moment despite the distance.
Her absence didn’t stop her teammates from stepping up. Chelsea Gray delivered a standout performance, scoring 18 points and dishing out eight assists to earn Finals MVP honors.
Azura Stevens filled the void left by Reese, grabbing 18 rebounds and scoring 19 points in a dominant effort to push Rose BC over the top.
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