Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese achieved a significant milestone on Monday evening, setting new WNBA records for single-game and single-season rebounds during her team's 78-71 win against the Los Angeles Sparks. However, the historic performance was accompanied by scrutiny over an incident in the first quarter.
Reese recorded 26 rebounds in the game, surpassing A'ja Wilson's 2024 season mark and establishing a new single-game record. Despite her dominant performance on the boards, a play in the first quarter drew attention. Reese was called for a foul after making contact with Sparks forward Dearica Hamby while vying for position in the paint. Video circulating on social media captured Reese appearing to utter "I don't give a f***" after the foul was called.
Following the game, Reese faced a wave of criticism on social media platforms. Users on X, formerly Twitter, expressed disapproval of her actions, with some calling for her to be benched or questioning her suitability for the league. "Bench her! Behavior unbecoming to her team and the league," one user posted, while another commented, "Shes a horrible person Why do you idiots allow this s*** @WNBA she is not team USA worthy pick someone else."
Despite the online backlash, Reese continues to be a key defensive player for the Dream, leading the league in rebounds and ranking third in steals. The Atlanta Dream, with Reese's contributions, hold the top position in the WNBA's Eastern Conference, currently half a game ahead of the Indiana Fever.
