Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese recently went viral for what has been described as one of the worst basketball shots in history during a game against the Las Vegas Aces on August 3, 2026. Despite the widely circulated clip of the unusual shot attempt, Reese recorded 23 points and 16 rebounds in the contest, which the Dream ultimately lost by 20 points.
The shot, characterized by a blind throw towards the rim, was followed by a rebound and put-back by Reese, all while her team was trailing significantly. The play and its aftermath drew considerable attention and commentary on social media and sports analysis platforms.
Reese also made headlines prior to the game for comments she made regarding the availability of dolls that resembled her as a child. She stated, "Honestly, I didn’t have a lot of dolls because I didn’t have dolls that really looked like me much." She emphasized the importance of her signature Barbie doll, noting, "That’s why I kind of really wanted to make sure this was super intentional, because now that they have a doll that looks like you, nails and hair, but also you can be a killer on the court as well."
Reports indicate that Mattel introduced Christie, a Black character in the Barbie line, in 1968, and the first doll officially named Black Barbie was released in 1980, predating Reese's birth.
Despite the controversy and discussion surrounding the shot and her comments, Reese's performance included 23 points on 10-of-19 shooting from the field, along with her 16 rebounds.