Angel Reese closes in on major WNBA record after historic Dream performance

Angel Reese has not needed much time to leave her mark on the Atlanta Dream’s record book. Now, one of the biggest single-season records in WNBA history is within her reach.

Reese recorded 20 points and 14 rebounds in Atlanta’s 107-95 victory over the Toronto Tempo on Monday night. The three-time All-Star shot 7-of-14 from the field, made five of her six free throws and connected on one of her three attempts from beyond the arc.

The performance delivered more than another productive night for Atlanta’s star forward. It gave Reese her 22nd double-double of the season, establishing a new Dream single-season franchise record. With 12 games remaining on Atlanta’s schedule, Reese has a realistic opportunity to catch Alyssa Thomas’ WNBA record of 28 double-doubles in one season.

Angel Reese breaks Atlanta Dream record

Reese arrived in Atlanta with an established reputation as one of the most relentless rebounders in basketball. She has only strengthened it during her first season with the Dream.

The 24-year-old is averaging 15.8 points, 11.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists through 31 appearances. Her 369 total rebounds rank second in the WNBA. Reese’s production has also translated into winning. Monday’s victory improved the Dream to 20-12, keeping Atlanta among the league’s strongest teams as the regular season enters its final stretch.

Her record-setting double-double against Toronto showcased the versatility she has continued to add to her game. Reese scored efficiently around the basket, reached the free-throw line and even knocked down a 3-pointer.

The outside shot remains a developing part of her offensive arsenal, but Reese does not need to become an elite perimeter scorer to control games. Her rebounding, physicality and consistent ability to generate second-chance opportunities already make her one of the league’s most impactful forwards.

WNBA double-double record is within reach

Thomas established the WNBA single-season record by producing 28 double-doubles for the Connecticut Sun in 2023. Reese needs six more over Atlanta’s final 12 games to tie Thomas. Seven would give her the record outright.

That means Reese must record a double-double in slightly more than half of the Dream’s remaining games to make history. Considering she already has 22 in 31 appearances, that pace is hardly unrealistic.

Reese has been piling up double-doubles since she entered the WNBA. She recorded 26 during her rookie season, the second-highest single-season total in league history, while setting a rookie record with 13.1 rebounds per game. She also owns the WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles after producing 15 straight during her first season.

Reese later became the fastest player in league history to reach 1,000 career rebounds, accomplishing the feat in 79 games. She also reached 50 career double-doubles in just 64 games, another WNBA record.

MORE: Sophie Cunningham shares four-word message before Fever-Liberty showdown

Reese trade continues paying off for Dream

Atlanta’s decision to bring in Reese after she spent her first two seasons with the Chicago Sky has delivered immediate results. The Dream did not simply acquire an elite rebounder. They added a player capable of producing every night while attracting significant attention to a franchise attempting to contend for a championship.

Reese has responded by posting the most double-doubles in a single season in Atlanta history before the team even reached its final 10 games. The larger league record remains the next target.

Reese has already shown that she can maintain an extraordinary rebounding pace across an entire season. If she produces seven more double-doubles over Atlanta’s final 12 games, she will officially move past Thomas and claim another place in WNBA history.

Even if she falls short, her first season with the Dream has already been historic. Reese has a franchise record, Atlanta has 20 victories and one of the league’s most notable milestones is suddenly close enough to chase.

More WNBA news:

• Old DiJonai Carrington-Caitlin Clark video resurfaces after Sophie Cunningham foul
• A'ja Wilson vs. Olivia Miles debate is on with Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers lurking
• Chiney Ogwumike reacts to WNBA’s Caitlin Clark suspension decision
• Why Indiana lieutenant governor is calling for Stephanie White's firing