Angel Reese reacts to Fever preseason win with message to rising rookie Raven Johnson

The buzz around the Indiana Fever didn’t just come from the scoreboard Saturday. It came from what the game represented and who was watching. After months of anticipation, injuries, roster changes and a new wave of young talent, Indiana’s preseason opener against the New York Liberty felt like more than just a tune-up. It was a glimpse into what this version of the Fever could become. And while most eyes were on Caitlin Clark returning to the floor, another WNBA star made sure a different storyline didn’t go unnoticed.

Angel Reese, now with the Atlanta Dream, was tuned in and quickly made her presence felt on social media after Indiana’s 109-91 win. But her focus wasn’t on Clark’s stat line or the final score. It was on a rookie who quietly stole the show.

Raven Johnson’s debut draws attention

Raven Johnson made her preseason debut look effortless. The former South Carolina standout came off the bench and delivered a complete performance, finishing with six points on perfect shooting, eight assists, three rebounds, a steal and two blocks in just 18 minutes.

For a first professional game, it was the kind of stat line that jumps out. More importantly, it was how she controlled the tempo and impacted both ends of the floor that turned heads.

Reese was among those paying close attention.

“so proud of my booskieeee @HollywoodRaven,” Reese posted on X shortly after the game.

so proud of my booskieeee @HollywoodRaven

A rivalry that turned into respect

Reese and Johnson didn’t build their relationship as teammates. Their history goes back to intense college matchups, where they frequently found themselves on opposite sides of high-stakes games. What started as competition has clearly evolved into something more personal.

Moments like this show how much that respect has grown. Reese has consistently supported Johnson’s career milestones, including her transition to the WNBA, and this latest message continues that trend.

Clark returns, but the bigger picture emerges

Clark’s return was still a major storyline. The Fever guard played her first game in nearly 10 months after a groin injury cut short her 2025 season. She finished with seven points on 2-of-10 shooting, along with four assists and no turnovers in 17 minutes. It wasn’t a dominant performance, but it didn’t need to be. The bigger takeaway for Indiana was balance. The Fever didn’t rely on Clark to carry the load, and contributions from players like Johnson showed just how much depth this roster may have.

That’s what made Reese’s reaction so telling. Around the league, players are already noticing.

What this means going forward

Preseason games rarely carry long-term weight, but this one felt different. The Fever didn’t just get Clark back. They may have found another playmaker who can elevate everyone around her. If Johnson’s debut is any indication, Indiana’s ceiling might be higher than expected.

And if opposing stars like Reese are already taking notice, that attention isn’t going away anytime soon.