Angel Reese has answered her critics with two outstanding performances. Still, one question remains as the Atlanta Dream chase a WNBA championship: Can she deliver that level of production consistently?
The opening game of the Finals exposed the concern. Reese scored 14 points in the first half against the Golden State Valkyries but failed to score after halftime as Atlanta suffered a narrow 68-64 defeat.
Her quiet second half became an immediate talking point. In a championship series, even a short offensive drought can change the outcome.
Reese responded emphatically in Game 2, recording 30 points and 16 rebounds in Atlanta’s 79-65 victory. She followed that performance with 21 points and 12 rebounds in Game 3, helping the Dream win 97-71 and take a 2-1 series lead.
Those performances deserve recognition. They also raise expectations for what Reese can deliver moving forward.
Golden State now has to find a way to limit her influence without allowing Atlanta’s other offensive threats to take over. Meanwhile, Reese must continue attacking, securing rebounds and creating opportunities when the Valkyries adjust.
The stakes are too high for Atlanta to rely on occasional bursts of brilliance. Championship teams need their stars to remain involved when defenses tighten and possessions become more difficult.
Reese has made a powerful case for herself during these Finals. However, the series is not over, and her next performance will provide another test.
For now, she has answered the criticism with production. The challenge is making sure the conversation stays that way.
