Angel Reese sets WNBA rebounding record in Atlanta Dream win over Fever
Angel Reese became the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 1,000 career rebounds as the Atlanta Dream secured a commanding 113-96 victory over the Indiana Fever on Saturday.
The record-breaking star achieved the impressive landmark in just her 79th professional appearance.
She contributed 18 points and eight boards to help her new side claim their third consecutive win in front of a sold-out State Farm Arena crowd.
Relentless rebounding yields success
Rhyne Howard top-scored for the hosts with 24 points, while Allisha Gray added a further 22 to seal the crucial victory.
“I think people don’t realize rebounding is harder than you think,” Reese said.
“Defensive rebounds are a little bit more easier, but going in and crashing every single time to get second-chance opportunities on the offensive end.”
The formidable forward noted that her tireless work in the paint directly translates into vital extra scoring chances for her teammates.
Star-studded crowd witnesses latest clash
This highly anticipated match-up was shifted to the 17,044-capacity home of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks to accommodate immense ticket demand.
Caitlin Clark led the scoring for the visitors with 26 points, but the high-profile guard struggled in possession and registered seven turnovers.
“Take care of the ball better,” Clark admitted after the defeat. “And that’s just with me.”
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley received a standing ovation from the Georgia crowd as she watched seven of her former collegiate players compete.
Dream continue fine form
Atlanta initially trailed 59-56 at the interval following a strong start from Indiana’s Kelsey Mitchell, who registered 16 points in the opening half.
However, the home side dominated the third quarter, outscoring their opponents 28-15 to establish an 84-74 lead heading into the final period.
Naz Hillmon added 19 points off the bench, while Jordin Canada scored eight of her 12 points during that decisive third-quarter surge.
This latest triumph elevates the soaring Dream to an 11-4 record for the campaign, leaving the struggling Fever at 9-7.