Table of Contents
After a rollercoaster rookie season filled with highs, headlines, and heavy scrutiny, Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese is facing one of the most challenging phases of her young WNBA career — a shooting slump. But in true Reese fashion, the 22-year-old isn’t backing down. Instead, she’s embracing the grind, staying confident, and, as she puts it, “letting it fly.”
In a candid post-game interview following the Sky’s 89-83 loss earlier this week, Reese opened up about her recent struggles from the field — and why she refuses to lose confidence in her shot.
“I know I haven’t been hitting like I should, but that’s part of the game,” Reese said.
“You can’t stop shooting just because you miss a few. I’ve worked too hard to start doubting myself now.”
🎯 A Rookie’s Reality: The Adjustment Curve
Transitioning from college dominance at LSU to the pros hasn’t been easy. Reese, who earned the nickname “Bayou Barbie” for her fierce play and flair, has faced the full spectrum of WNBA defenses — faster, taller, and more physical.
Still, the rookie has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging near a double-double this season with her trademark hustle and rebounding tenacity. But shooting efficiency has been a sticking point.
In her last five games, Reese has shot below 40%, leading to chatter among fans and analysts questioning her offensive consistency.
“I hear it, I see it — people talking about my jumper, my finishing, my percentages,” Reese said.
“But I’m in the gym every day. The shots will fall. You just have to stay patient and keep trusting the work.”
💪 “Confidence Is a Muscle — You Gotta Keep Flexing It”
Reese’s attitude reflects her mental toughness — something she’s built up since her NCAA days. She recalled similar stretches at LSU when her shot wasn’t falling, and how she learned to keep her head up through the noise.
“I used to beat myself up when I had a bad game,” she admitted.
“Now I just remind myself that even the best players go through it. Confidence is like a muscle — you gotta keep flexing it or it fades.”
Her teammates have rallied behind her, too. Chicago Sky veteran Marina Mabrey praised Reese’s work ethic and leadership despite her offensive struggles.
“Angel never hides from the moment,” Mabrey said.
“She wants the ball, even when it’s not falling. That’s what separates good players from great ones.”
🔥 “Let It Fly” — A Motto and a Mindset
If there’s one phrase Reese has embraced lately, it’s “Let it fly.”
It’s become her personal mantra — a reminder to trust her instincts, stay fearless, and ignore the critics.
“I tell myself every game — keep letting it fly,” Reese said with a smile.
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. I’d rather go 2-for-10 than not shoot at all. Because that means I’m still being aggressive, I’m still in the fight.”
Her coaches have echoed the same message. Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon, who’s been instrumental in guiding Reese’s development, encouraged her to play through the slump.
“Angel’s heart is unmatched,” Weatherspoon said.
“She brings effort every night, and that’s something you can’t teach. The shots will come. Right now, we just want her to keep being fearless.”
🧠 Beyond Stats: The Evolution of Angel Reese
While shooting numbers tell part of the story, Reese’s impact extends far beyond the box score. She’s consistently among the WNBA leaders in offensive rebounds, often creating second-chance opportunities through sheer hustle and determination.
Her physical presence, energy, and leadership have quickly made her the emotional anchor of the Sky — even as a rookie.
“You can’t measure what she brings in stats alone,” said Sky assistant coach Brittany Boyd-Jones.
“Her energy changes games. When she’s locked in, everyone feeds off her.”
💬 “I Know Who I Am”
Reese’s confidence hasn’t wavered despite public criticism. Social media often magnifies every miss or turnover, but she’s learned to tune it out.
“People will talk whether you’re up or down,” she said.
“I know who I am. I know what I bring to this team. One bad week doesn’t define me — and one hot streak doesn’t either. I just keep working.”
Her mental growth has been evident since joining the WNBA. Unlike in college, where she dominated the paint with ease, Reese now faces veterans who’ve perfected their craft for years. She sees that as motivation, not intimidation.
“It’s a challenge every night, and that’s what I love,” she added.
“Every game teaches me something new. Every miss is a lesson. I’m growing — and I’m not afraid to fail while doing it.”
🌟 Fans Stand Behind the “Bayou Barbie”
Despite her slump, Reese continues to command one of the WNBA’s largest fan bases. Her charisma, authenticity, and hustle resonate deeply with young fans who admire her resilience.
After her post-game interview, social media was flooded with messages of support:
“Angel’s energy is unmatched. We ride with her no matter what!” one fan posted.
“Shooters shoot — let it fly, Queen 👑,” another added.
Even former players and analysts have weighed in, praising her mentality.
“Every great scorer goes through it,” said ESPN’s Monica McNutt.
“What matters is how you respond — and Angel’s response shows why she’s built for this league.”
🔮 What’s Next for Reese
As the Sky continue their push toward playoff contention, Reese remains focused on development — refining her footwork, improving her midrange shot, and expanding her offensive arsenal.
“It’s all part of the process,” she said.
“I’m gonna miss shots, I’m gonna make shots. But you’ll never see me stop shooting, stop hustling, or stop believing in myself.”
That attitude — gritty, fearless, and unapologetic — is exactly what made Angel Reese a star in the first place.
And if history is any indication, every slump she faces only sets the stage for her next breakout.
