ESPN Recognizes Angel Reese as the ‘Andre Drummond of the WNBA’: A New Era of Dominance in Women’s Basketball

In a groundbreaking moment for women’s basketball, ESPN recently referred to Angel Reese as the “Andre Drummond of the WNBA.” This recognition places Reese in the company of one of the NBA’s most dominant rebounders and players of his generation. But what does this comparison really mean for Reese, the 6-foot-3 forward who is taking the WNBA by storm?

One of the most significant aspects of Reese’s game is her rebounding. Just like Drummond, Reese has quickly established herself as a rebounding machine, consistently pulling down double-digit boards.

Her relentless pursuit of the basketball and her size make her a constant threat in the paint, a critical asset for any team. In fact, her rebounding average is often one of the best in the league, and she is known for her ability to grab crucial offensive rebounds to keep possessions alive.

For Reese, it’s not just about numbers; it’s about setting a tone for her team. Her rebounding energy often ignites fast breaks, leads to second-chance points, and wears down opposing teams. It’s this all-encompassing approach that has earned her the “Andre Drummond” moniker. Much like Drummond, Reese can control the flow of a game with her presence on the glass alone.

Who is Andre Drummond?

To fully understand the significance of the comparison, it’s essential to know what makes Andre Drummond stand out in the NBA. Drummond is known for his incredible ability to dominate the boards. Standing at 6-foot-10 and weighing 279 pounds, he has been one of the league’s most feared rebounders throughout his career.

With multiple All-Star appearances and several seasons leading the NBA in rebounds per game, Drummond carved out a niche as a relentless presence in the paint.

His statistical achievements, particularly his rebounding prowess, have made him a household name. Drummond’s ability to snatch offensive and defensive boards with equal authority and his tenacity around the rim have earned him a reputation as a force in the paint.

Angel Reese Sends Three-Word Message After Unfortunate Injury News

Chicago Sky star Angel Reese reasserted her place as one of women’s basketball’s best players after her Unrivaled campaign. The 22-year-old won the league’s Defensive Player of the Year award for Rose BC and also leads it with 12.1 rebounds per game.

This comes on the heels of an All-Star WNBA rookie season in which she topped the league with 13.1 boards a night. Reese was a major reason why the Rose (8-6) are in the Unrivaled championship against the Vinyl (5-9) on Monday night.

However, the former NCAA champion was ruled out of the contest due to a hand injury, via Meghan L. Hall.

Still, Reese supported her teammates via X. Ahead of the championship game, Unrivaled’s DPOY posted a three-word message for Rose BC.

“COME ON ROSEBUDSSSSS,” the 2024 WNBA All-Rookie honoree tweeted.

With Kahleah Copper (leg) also out, the Rose are deploying Brittney Sykes, Chelsea Gray, and Azura Stevens in their starting lineup, with Lexie Hull and Naz Hillmon as reserves.

Meanwhile, the Vinyl are starting Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby, and Jordan Canada, with Aliyah Boston and Rae Burrell off the bench.

Reese ranked sixth in Unrivaled with a team-high eight blocked shots this season while also totaling eight double-doubles. Additionally, the 2024 SEC Player of the Year had the first 20-20 game in league history on Feb. 21, notching 22 points (10-19 FG, 0-1 3 PT) with 21 rebounds in a 73-62 win over the Lunar Owls.

Reese will now focus on rehabbing for the WNBA season. The Sky will play their first game against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on May 17.