Angel Reese Thrilled by WNBA's Positive Trajectory and Mentored by Shaquille O'Neal

Angel Reese expressed her enthusiasm for the positive direction of the WNBA after being drafted by the Chicago Sky. She was chosen as the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft, joining forces with former South Carolina player Kamilla Cardoso, who was selected at No. 3. Together, they are expected to form a strong front court for the team.

During her first press conference in Chicago, the 21-year-old player shared what she has learned from the experienced players in the league. She mentioned how the veterans expressed their excitement for the newcomers like her to be part of the amazing league. Reese expressed her appreciation for the warm welcome and support she has received from the veterans in the team.

Reese is a bonafide star in women's basketball, making her mark in the WNBA after achieving success at LSU. She is grateful for the support of her teammates and the positive direction the team is heading in. Reese is excited about the growth in networks, ticket sales, and jersey sales, indicating a promising future for the team.

Last year, the forward was honored as the SEC Player of the Year and received the AP All-American recognition three times. Reese also achieved the national title with LSU in 2023.

Off the court, Reese remains a familiar face throughout the US, along with Caitlin Clark, playing a significant role in the recent rise in popularity of women's basketball.

Reese, the former LSU Tiger, discussed the attention she has been receiving as she transitions to the professional level.

When asked about how she has been dealing with being in the spotlight, Reese mentioned that she believes many players in her class have also taken on similar roles as celebrity athletes.

I believe that our class is truly historic. It is crucial to make positive changes and move in the right direction. Our impact and the platform we have utilized at a high level are inspiring many people at this moment.

Reese was selected with the No. 7 pick of the 2024 WNBA draft.

Reese was selected with the No. 7 pick of the 2024 WNBA draft.

Brad Penner/USA TODAY Sports/Reuters

Advice from a legend

One person who knows a thing or two about handling the transition from college to professional basketball is Reese’s fellow LSU alum Shaquille O’Neal.

O’Neal had an outstanding career with the Tigers and was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1992 NBA draft. He went on to win four NBA championships and is considered one of the greatest players in league history.

Shaq recently praised Reese, calling him "probably the best athlete to ever come out of LSU sports."

Reese discussed the support she has been receiving from O’Neal as she transitions to the WNBA during a conversation with reporters on Wednesday. She mentioned that O'Neal congratulated her after she was drafted and has been a great source of inspiration for her.

"He shared with me his experience entering the league as a rookie. He emphasized the importance of going in with the mindset to dominate, learn, and understand, while also not holding back. It's crucial to have an open mindset, but to be aware of the stakes and what you aim to achieve."

Reese will be teaming up with Cardoso in Chicago as they aim to bounce back from their loss in the first round of the 2023 playoffs against the eventual champions, the Las Vegas Aces.

Cardoso, a two-time NCAA national champion with South Carolina, brings the potential to become one of the WNBA's most dominant centers as she joins the league.

In Reese and Cardoso, the Sky now have a frontcourt with the potential to change the game, and the former LSU star is thrilled about what the future holds in the Windy City.

"I've been playing with Kamilla since high school, so I've always known her capabilities," she mentioned. "It's great to have a post player like her who can sprint from one end of the court to the other, and I can keep up with her pace.

"If I happen to miss a defensive play, she's got my back, and vice versa," she added.

Editor's P/S:

Angel Reese's enthusiasm for the WNBA's future is a testament to the league's growing popularity and the impact of its players. Reese's recognition of the league's growth in networks, ticket sales, and jersey sales highlights the increasing engagement of fans and the growing recognition of women's basketball. Her appreciation for the support and guidance she has received from veteran players further emphasizes the positive and welcoming environment that exists within the league.

Reese's transition from college to the WNBA has been guided by the advice of legendary LSU alumnus Shaquille O'Neal. O'Neal's mentorship and support have been invaluable to Reese, providing her with insights into the challenges and opportunities she will face as a professional athlete. The relationship between Reese and O'Neal demonstrates the legacy and continuity that exists within the LSU basketball program and the broader basketball community.