Sky's Angel Reese excited to help boost WNBA's star power - ESPN

CHICAGO — After attending the Met Gala and playing in a preseason game on back-to-back nights this week, Chicago Sky rookie forward Angel Reese is excited to bring her celebrity and talent to the WNBA.

Reese, the No. 7 pick in last month's WNBA draft out of LSU, rubbed shoulders with A-list stars in New York City on Monday, her 22nd birthday. She then traveled back to Chicago on a private plane and scored 13 points in 19 minutes in Tuesday's 101-53 preseason victory over the New York Liberty — played before only the Sky's season-ticket holders and several prominent athletes, including new Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams.

«I took my matchup seriously, I watched film when I was on the plane and I didn't take anything off,» Reese said Wednesday during the team's media day. «I wanted to get back. People at the Met Gala were like, 'Are you partying after this?' I'm like, 'No, I've got a game tomorrow. I got to watch film.' I prioritize everything. I'm still in school as well, so I've got a busy schedule — a lot going on — but like I said, you've got to maximize your 24 hours.»

Reese recognizes her own profile and those of other WNBA rookies, including the Indiana Fever's Caitlin Clark and Sky teammate Kamilla Cardoso, will create more buzz at games this season.

«The who's who are going to be courtside,» Reese said. «I was at the Met Gala, and Usher's going to try to come up to a game in Vegas and Cardi B. I know some people that y'all might not think I know.»

Reese expects big crowds for both home and away games as interest grows around the sport. She also praised the WNBA's decision this week to begin funding full-time charter flight service for teams during the season.

«Games are going to be packed,» Reese said.