WNBA icon Lisa Leslie offers candid advice to Angel Reese ahead of Sky star’s second season

Introduction

Lisa Leslie, a basketball legend with multiple accolades, including three WNBA MVP awards, recently shared valuable insights with Angel Reese on her podcast, "Unapologetically Angel." Their conversation highlighted Leslie’s admiration for Reese’s potential and her specific advice for improvement. Leslie emphasized the importance of enhancing Reese’s layup shooting, a crucial skill for any basketball player, suggesting that this area could significantly impact her overall performance.

Areas for Improvement

Leslie pointed out that while Reese excels in various aspects of the game, her layup efficiency is an area ripe for development. Reese’s 42.2% success rate on layups last season underscores the need for refinement. Leslie, with her extensive experience, offered to help Reese improve, confidence in the younger player’s ability to grow. This advice not only addresses a technical aspect of Reese’s game but also highlights the importance of mentorship in sports.

Season Performance

Reese’s rookie season was nothing short of remarkable, setting records such as the longest streak of double-doubles in WNBA history. Her averages of 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game showcased her versatility and talent. Despite her achievements, Reese’s layup efficiency was a notable weakness, an area that, if improved, could elevate her game to new heights. Balancing her strengths with areas for growth paints a realistic picture of her potential as a player.

Team Performance

The Chicago Sky’s 2023 season was disappointing, finishing with a 13-27 record and missing the playoffs. This underperformance led to a coaching change, with Teresa Weatherspoon being replaced by Tyler Marsh. The change was met with mixed emotions, as Reese expressed her attachment to Weatherspoon, indicating the personal side of professional sports. The new coaching era brings both challenges and opportunities for Reese and the team to bounce back stronger.

Coaching Change

Reese’s emotional response to Weatherspoon’s departure highlights the deep connections formed in sports. The arrival of Tyler Marsh introduces a new dynamic, offering a fresh perspective that could benefit the team. As Reese adapts to the new regime, her ability to embrace change and continue growing will be crucial. The coaching transition serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of professional sports.

Conclusion

Angel Reese’s journey is a testament to hard work and resilience. With the guidance of legends like Lisa Leslie, she has the potential to overcome her challenges and become a dominant force in the WNBA. Her willingness to learn and improve, coupled with her natural talent, positions her for continued success. As she embraces the upcoming season and new coaching, Reese’s future looks promising, both on and off the court.