A year ago, Angel Reese languished with the Chicago Sky. Yet, an offseason trade to the Atlanta Dream turned her fortunes around. The Dream are tied for the No. 4 spot in the standings. Now, the leading rebounder in the WNBA squared her sights on helping Team USA win the FIBA World Cup.
While scoring is what many believe draws people to the arena, Reese’s contributions extend beyond that. Social media took notice and could not help but respond to her on-court talent.
Social Media Hypes Angel Reese Over Rebounding at FIBA World Cup
Reese may not have a technically strong offensive game, but she rebounds extremely well. Social media gave her flowers over her performance in the first game. Fans could not help but cheer. “Yaass, Angel! Keep hooping,” rejoiced one fan.
Yaass, Angel! Keep hooping. https://t.co/A3Cvr8ZH3W
— Liv and Crys’s Big Sis and Protector (@Mondakindle) September 4, 2026
Reese made the most of her 17 minutes, to the delight of her teammates and people watching. “Angel got 8 rebounds with limited minutes it’s just in her man,” stated one fan.
Angel got 8 rebounds with limited minutes it’s just in her man 😭
— J_CLUTCH2 (@thoughtandhoops) September 4, 2026
The box score rings a little more profound. In 17 minutes, Reese recorded 5 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 block, shooting 50% from the field. While Reese’s stat line is impressive, realizing how she needed to face Zhang Ziyu, the Chinese center, who Reese needed to battle under the boards.
While Ziyu isn’t the most mobile player, her sheer size and height make her a problem for anyone. Reese battled and did not back down. The performance led some to blend it with what Reese is doing in the WNBA.
“DPOY Angel Reese,” boasted another X user. Between contesting shots and cleaning the glass, Reese improved her ability to play the passing lanes, turning deflections into steals. Her 1.8 steals per game hold down third place in the WNBA. At the international level, those quick hands allow Reese to play at either frontcourt spot.
The former LSU standout continues to gain appreciation for her overall improvement, and her teammates’ play could lead to playoff success for the Dream when she returns from the World Cup.
“Great performance from Angel Reese. The most important thing for me is her and Rhyne staying healthy. We got a championship to win,” discussed a user. Howard gives the Dream an outside threat while Reese toils in the post.
Great performance from Angel Reese. The most important thing for me is her and Rhyne staying healthy. We got a championship to win.
— 🇨🇩 Zande✊🏾 (@KongoZande) September 4, 2026
Moreover, Reese keeps the ball alive, leading to more possessions, potentially increasing the likelihood that the team will score. Team USA benefited from Reese, who continues to play much better. Now, on an international level, Reese gained a new nickname. “USA Barbie,” mentioned one observer.
Reese will face Italy and Czechia on consecutive days next week as Team USA continues its quest to win. Whether she can continue her rebounding dominance remains to be seen.
