Angel Reese Makes History with First Career Triple-Double
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese achieved a remarkable milestone by recording her first career triple-double with 11 points, 11 assists, and 13 rebounds in the team’s decisive 78-66 victory over the Connecticut Sun. At exactly 23 years and 40 days old, Reese became the second-youngest player in WNBA history to accomplish this feat, trailing only behind the phenomenal Caitlin Clark who achieved multiple triple-doubles while still 22 years old. The performance was particularly impressive as Reese’s 11 assists represented more than double her previous career high, demonstrating significant growth in her playmaking abilities and court vision throughout the season.
The Chicago Sky’s bench played a crucial role in the victory, with Hailey Van Lith leading the charge with 16 points as the reserves dramatically outscored Connecticut’s bench players by an overwhelming margin of 36-2. This dominant bench performance highlighted the depth and versatility that Chicago has developed, with multiple players stepping up to contribute meaningfully in crucial moments during Commissioner’s Cup competition. The team’s balanced scoring attack featured five different players reaching double figures, showcasing the improved ball movement and offensive chemistry that Reese’s enhanced passing ability has helped facilitate.
Caitlin Clark’s Spectacular Return Powers Indiana Fever
Caitlin Clark made a triumphant return to action after missing five games due to a left quadriceps injury, delivering a spectacular 32-point performance that led the Indiana Fever to a stunning 102-88 upset victory over the previously undefeated New York Liberty. Clark’s explosive comeback included nine assists and eight rebounds, directly accounting for 54 of Indiana’s total points through her scoring contributions and assist-generated baskets, demonstrating her immense impact on the team’s offensive efficiency. The performance marked both Indiana’s season-high scoring output and New York’s first defeat of the 2025 campaign, representing a significant momentum shift for the Fever who had struggled during Clark’s absence.
The most memorable sequence of Clark’s return occurred during the first quarter when she connected on three consecutive three-pointers from remarkable distances of 33, 27, and 31 feet respectively, electrifying the sold-out crowd of 17,274 fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Clark finished the first half with 25 points and connected on seven three-pointers throughout the game, showcasing the deep shooting range and confidence that has made her one of the league’s most dynamic offensive players. Her exceptional shooting performance from beyond the arc helped Indiana establish early momentum and maintain control throughout the contest against the defending champions.
Strategic Adjustments and Team Chemistry Development
The Liberty’s defensive strategy focused on limiting Indiana’s interior scoring opportunities, holding starting posts Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard to a combined 14 points, but this approach inadvertently opened up numerous perimeter scoring chances for the Fever’s shooters. Indiana capitalized brilliantly on these open looks, converting an impressive 17 of 24 field goal attempts on open shots while making nine of 13 three-point attempts, demonstrating excellent recognition of defensive schemes and quick ball movement. The Fever’s supporting cast, including Kelsey Mitchell with 22 points and Lexie Hull with 14 points, each contributed three three-pointers to complement Clark’s outstanding individual performance.
New York’s depleted roster, missing 2024 Finals MVP Jonquel Jones due to ankle injury and Leonie Fiebich who was representing Germany in EuroBasket competition, significantly affected their defensive rotations and overall team chemistry throughout the contest. Despite strong individual performances from Sabrina Ionescu (34 points) and Breanna Stewart (24 points), the Liberty struggled with defensive breakdowns and missed 19 open shooting opportunities that could have changed the game’s outcome. The absence of key players exposed depth issues that will need to be addressed as the season progresses and competition intensifies.
Season Implications and Future Outlook
These recent performances have significant implications for both teams’ trajectories, with Chicago’s balanced attack and improved bench depth suggesting they may be more competitive than their current 3-7 record indicates throughout the remainder of the season. Angel Reese’s development as a playmaker adds a new dimension to the Sky’s offensive capabilities, potentially making them a more dangerous opponent as she continues to expand her skill set beyond rebounding and scoring. The team’s ability to get multiple players involved offensively could prove crucial during the challenging stretch of games ahead in the Commissioner’s Cup standings.
Indiana’s victory over New York not only provided a significant confidence boost but also demonstrated the team’s resilience and depth during adversity, particularly their ability to maintain competitive play even when missing key contributors like DeWanna Bonner. The Fever’s upcoming challenging schedule includes their first West Coast road trip with games against Golden State, Las Vegas, and Seattle, which will test their newfound chemistry and Clark’s recovery from the quadriceps injury. Both the Liberty and Minnesota Lynx, last year’s WNBA Finals participants, have now suffered their first defeats of 2025, creating opportunities for teams like Indiana to gain ground in the competitive league standings.
Kia Nurse had 11 points on 4-of-4 shooting with three 3s, and Kamilla Cardoso and Ariel Atkins both had 10 points. Reserve Rachel Banham made her 300th career 3-pointer.
Marina Mabrey scored 22 points with five 3s for the Sun (2-8). Tina Charles added 19 points and Jacy Sheldon had 12.
Both teams shot 40% and made six 3-pointers in the first half, but the Sky were perfect on eight free throws to take a 38-36 lead. Mabrey was the only player in double figures with 16.
Mabrey’s 3 and two free throws by Charles gave Connecticut a 47-44 lead early in the second half, but Michaela Onyenwere and Reese converted three-point plays to make it 51-48. The Sky led 59-54 entering the fourth quarter.
