Angel Reese delivered an emphatic Unrivaled debut for Rose BC, answering critics with immediate production. The Chicago Sky forward brought energy, physicality, and composure, even though her minutes were carefully managed.
Coming off the bench against Hive BC at Sephora Arena, Reese entered to thunderous applause, and the atmosphere shifted instantly. Rose relied on starters including Shakira Austin, Kahleah Copper and Chelsea Gray, easing her back into action.
She wasted no time making an impact, grabbing a rebound and racing coast-to-coast, then spinning under the basket for a smooth layup. The sequence energised teammates and fans alike, immediately showcasing her trademark intensity.
Reese dominated the opening quarter, scoring eight points on flawless shooting while controlling the boards, and her aggressive style silenced lingering doubts.
The early burst underlined how quickly she can alter a game’s rhythm and demonstrated why she is one of women’s basketball’s best young talents.
Reese joined Rose through a rare three-team trade, and guard Copper had publicly urged her return, believing she could spark a postseason push. Her presence immediately validated that confidence.
Last season, Reese earned Defensive Player of the Year honours and recorded the league’s first 20-20 game, establishing herself as a cornerstone star and one of the competition’s biggest draws.
“Angel [Reese], she’s, obviously, a young player,” Unrivaled co-founder Napheesa Collier. “A really well-known player and someone who did really well last year. Her team won
“To have her back on the Rose is awesome. She’s just been such a huge addition to Unrivaled, and so, even though it’s only the end of the season, we’re happy to have her.”
Reese unable to stop Rose BC falling to Hive
After cooling in the second quarter, Reese surged again in the third, adding five points and four rebounds, and helping Rose briefly seize the lead. Her activity highlighted her role as a momentum-changing reserve.
She finished with 13 points on efficient shooting and eight rebounds in just ten minutes, and although she attempted no three-pointers, her interior scoring and defensive work remained highly effective.
Despite her strong outing, Rose fell 80-78 in a tense game marked by constant lead changes and ties, leaving the defending champions at 5-7. With only two regular-season games left, the playoff race has tightened.
Hive‘s star guard, Kelsey Mitchell, led all scorers with 27 points, including the decisive late basket, while Azura Stevens added key production off the bench.
Meanwhile in the WNBA, Reese and the Chicago Sky will open their WNBA campaign in early May and wrapping up in late September, with playoffs to follow.
Chicago will begin its season on May 9, 2026, on the road against the expansion Portland Fire whilst the home opener is set for May 20, when they welcome the Dallas Wings at Wintrust Arena.
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