Angel Reese has quickly become one of the most talked-about young stars in the WNBA. With her confident attitude, elite rebounding, and standout presence both on and off the court, she’s proven that she belongs in the league. But even the best players have room to grow, and a newly surfaced stat is shining a spotlight on exactly where Reese could make her next big leap.

According to recent performance data, Reese is struggling in one key area: shot efficiency around the rim. While she continues to dominate the glass and play strong defense, her finishing percentage in close-range situations has dropped below the league average for starting forwards. It’s not a huge gap, but in a league where every possession matters, it’s an area that deserves attention.

The Numbers Don’t Lie — But They Also Don’t Define Her

Let’s be clear: Angel Reese is still making a massive impact on her team. She’s averaging impressive double-doubles and providing a spark of energy every time she steps on the court. But this new stat reveals a subtle flaw that, if improved, could turn her from a rising star into a dominant force.

Close-range shooting is a fundamental part of the forward position, especially for a player like Reese who battles in the paint. Whether it’s about adjusting her footwork, improving her touch under pressure, or recognizing defensive schemes earlier, these small tweaks could create big results. And given her competitive nature, it’s likely she’s already watching film and putting in extra work to address it.

Why This Is a Good Thing

Here’s the thing: identifying a weakness isn’t a bad look — it’s an opportunity. Every great athlete has had to face moments like this. It’s these moments that separate the good from the legendary. Reese has already shown she has the drive, discipline, and work ethic to grow. She’s coachable, she listens, and she’s always looking to elevate her game.

Think about the stars who came before her — even seasoned pros have had to refine parts of their game. Learning and adapting is part of the process. The fact that stats are pointing out these gaps means we’re watching her in real time as she evolves into the next phase of her career.

Fans Believe In Her — And So Should You

The best part? Fans haven’t lost confidence. If anything, they’re excited. They see a young star hungry to improve and already making strides in a tough league. Social media is filled with messages of encouragement and belief that Reese is only scratching the surface of her full potential.

“She’s going to be unstoppable once she cleans up those finishes,” one fan wrote.

Another added, “I’ll take Angel’s hustle and rebounding over anything. The scoring will come!”

That kind of faith says a lot about who Angel Reese is as a player and as a person. She’s not afraid of hard work, and she’s not one to back down from a challenge.

A Bright Future — With Even Bigger Upside

In the end, this new stat isn’t a red flag — it’s a roadmap. It’s a chance for Reese to refine her game and level up even further. Every rookie faces adjustments. The important thing is how they respond, and if Reese’s history is any indication, she’s going to respond like a true pro.