Angel Reese Reflects on Initial Performance, Fuels Dream's Halftime Surge Against Fever

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese openly critiqued her own performance during the initial moments of Sunday night's contest against the Indiana Fever, sharing her thoughts publicly at halftime.

Although the Dream concluded the first half with a four-point advantage, Reese began the game struggling, missing all six of her field goal attempts, including several close-range shots in the paint.

Despite her personal struggles early on, she played a vital role in the Dream's impressive 17-4 scoring run that concluded the first two quarters of play.

During an ESPN halftime interview with reporter Holly Rowe, Reese was remarkably direct about her challenging start.

"I was playing like s--- in the beginning, but it’s a game of runs," she stated. "You’ve got to put that in your back pocket just because you know you have teammates that have your back. [Allisha Gray], Madina [Okot], [Rhyne Howard] – they’re carrying us right now."

Team Effort and Individual Adjustments

Allisha Gray emerged as the Dream's top scorer against Caitlin Clark and the Fever, maintaining her strong play with 21 points by the third quarter. Reserve player Madina Okot also made a significant impact, contributing six points off the bench, along with six rebounds, one steal, and one block.

Reese emphasized the importance of collective play, adding,

"Just playing together, playing collectively and let our defense speak for itself."

By halftime, Reese had improved her stat line, finishing with seven points on 3-of-10 shooting and grabbing nine rebounds.

When Rowe inquired about the adjustments Reese made after her cold start, she responded,

"Taking my time. Woosah. And just trusting my work."

Reese's Impact in a Crucial Season

Reese, who earned her third All-Star selection in her third WNBA season this year, has been an indispensable player for the Atlanta Dream. Heading into Sunday's game, the 21-12 Dream relied on her averages of a career-high 15.6 points and 12.0 rebounds per game across 32 appearances this season.

The matchup between the Dream and the Fever carried significant weight, as both teams were vying for the top position in the Eastern Conference standings, with the winner temporarily securing that coveted spot.