There’s no slowing down for Angel Reese following her whirlwind WNBA draft experience.
One day after being selected seventh overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the former LSU standout appeared Tuesday on the “Today” show and discussed her immediate plans before the start of her rookie season as a pro.
“I’m still in school, so I’m finishing school, I graduate on May 18,” Reese said. “I’m still training, I’m packed up my apartment and I’m ready to go.”
Reese, an All-American forward and the 2024 SEC Player of the Year, declared for the WNBA draft earlier this month following LSU’s Elite Eight loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes in the NCAA women’s tournament, where the Tigers hoped to repeat as national champions.
When asked Tuesday on “Today” what she envisions her LSU legacy to be, the 21-year-old stressed being “impactful.”
“I’ve always wanted to be a great player, but I also wanted to be impactful and I think I left my mark there,” Reese said.
“Obviously I won, and being a winner is something I always wanted, but so many little girls worldwide look up to me and say, ‘You’ve impacted my life in a positive way,’ and that’s why I keep going. Every day isn’t a good day and every day isn’t going to be the best day, but I try to stand strong, keep my shoulders back, and stay positive and confident in everything I do.”
Though Reese faced increased scrutiny following LSU’s national championship win over Iowa last year, the 6-foot-3 Maryland native — who averaged 18.6 points and 12.3 rebounds this past season — said she doesn’t feel “pressure” upon entering the next chapter of her career.
“I stay calm, I have a great time around me that keeps me motivated and keeps me grounded,” she said on “Today.”
Reese’s new team boasts former South Carolina rival Kamilla Cardoso, who was selected No.3 overall by the Sky.
“Being able to be teammates is going to be amazing. I actually talked to her earlier, was congratulating her. I know she came off an amazing run, an amazing college career. I’m looking forward to playing with her in practice and in games, just bouncing off of each other. So, I’m excited for this,” Reese said Monday.
The Sky will open the season against the Dallas Wings on May 15.
