Angel Reese, the Atlanta Dream forward, has found herself in the spotlight once again, but this time, it's not for her rebounding prowess or physicality. Instead, a viral video of her three-point shot has sparked a debate about her shooting form and overall offensive capabilities. While Reese has built a strong identity in the WNBA, with a focus on rebounding, physicality, and confidence, her shooting has been a point of contention among critics.
The recent practice footage of Reese shooting threes before the game against the Indiana Fever drew a lot of attention, with fans dissecting her footwork, mechanics, and release. This criticism comes on the heels of Atlanta's loss to Indiana, where Reese struggled offensively, shooting 4-for-9 overall and missing her only three-point attempt. The video of her missed shot quickly spread online, highlighting the ongoing debate about her shooting form.
Reese's response to the criticism was characteristic of her, as she clapped back with a short message that matched her usual refusal to let outside noise go unanswered. She stated, 'Always a nobody bringing me up.' This response, while defiant, also underscores the ongoing challenge she faces in the face of public scrutiny.
The debate surrounding Reese's shooting form is not new. Her season profile reveals a mixed bag of statistics, with an average of 12.8 points, 11.1 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.0 blocks. However, her field goal percentage is only 41.5%, and her three-point shooting is a mere 9.1%. This low shooting percentage has led some to question her ability to become a reliable scorer in the WNBA.
Reese's current version of herself is an elite rebounder who excels in defense, screening, and creating second chances. She is a valuable asset to the team, especially in the paint. However, her lack of a reliable midrange shot or a consistent three-point stroke limits her effectiveness on the court. If Reese wants to unlock her full potential in the WNBA, she needs to improve her shooting, especially from beyond the arc.
The issue of spacing is a significant concern for the Atlanta Dream. When defenders can sag off Reese, it becomes easier for the opposing team to crowd the halfcourt offense, making it harder for her to finish post touches cleanly. This is where the importance of a workable midrange shot or an occasional corner three comes into play. Even a slight improvement in her shooting could change how teams guard her, opening up new opportunities for the Dream.
In conclusion, Angel Reese's viral three-point miss has reignited the conversation about her shooting form and overall offensive capabilities. While she has been a valuable player for the Atlanta Dream, her lack of a reliable midrange shot or a consistent three-point stroke is a concern. Reese needs to work on her shooting to unlock her full potential and become a more well-rounded player in the WNBA. Only then can she truly become a superstar and anchor a physical frontcourt for the Dream.
