Angel Reese, the seventh pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, is making a name for herself as one of the top rookies in her class, second only to Caitlin Clark. Known for her exceptional rebounding skills and ability to consistently achieve double-doubles, Reese’s game is not without its flaws, particularly her struggles with finishing at the rim.
Reese’s layup conversion rate within five feet is alarmingly low at 43.8 percent, making her the least efficient player in the league in this aspect. Despite her efforts, she has had some notable missed opportunities, including a memorable blunder in a recent game.
We can quantify Reese’s finishing woes by comparing her shooting percentage on close-range shots to the league average of 59.6 percent. The stark difference highlights her inefficiency near the basket.
Angel Reese’s Struggles with Layup Finishing
Reese’s shooting percentage on shots within five feet falls well below the league average, indicating a significant area of improvement for the young player.
Shooting below 44 percent on close-range shots is concerning, especially considering Reese’s high volume of attempts. With 274 field goal tries, she leads the league by a wide margin, underscoring the impact her improved finishing could have on her team’s offensive performance.
In addition to her layup woes, Reese’s shooting percentages from midrange and beyond the arc are also subpar, further highlighting her offensive challenges.
If Reese aims to contribute positively on offense, she must address her finishing issues. While her current performance is disappointing, there is hope for improvement as she continues to develop in her rookie season.
Despite her struggles scoring near the basket, Reese’s exceptional rebounding abilities remain a standout aspect of her game. Her relentless effort on the boards has already set her apart in league history, with impressive accomplishments like recording three consecutive 20+ rebound games.
While Reese has the potential to become a dominant force in the league, her need for improvement in finishing lays a clear path for her journey towards greatness.