The Chicago Sky star, Angel Reese, was awarded Unrivaled’s first-ever Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite suffering a wrist injury last week, Reese’s remarkable Unrivaled season culminated in recognition as the league’s Defensive Player of the Year. This announcement came shortly after her All-Unrivaled Second Team selection was revealed.
Very well-deserved. Her defensive versatility was on full display at Unrivaled https://t.co/qh0Mv0BDos
— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) March 15, 2025
During the inaugural Unrivaled season, Reese led the league in rebounds, averaging 12.2 boards per game, and topped the Rose club in blocked shots with 0.6 blocks per game. Her defensive prowess anchored the Rose’s defense, which allowed just 65.2 points per game—the fewest in the league.
According to SB Nation’s Unrivaled Defensive Player of the Year ballot, Reese ranked third, following Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. Both Collier and Brittney Griner led the league in blocks, averaging 1.4 per game, while Collier topped the steals leaderboard at two per game.
Angel Reese’s Successful Inaugural Unrivaled Season
Reese’s defining strength as a defender during the Unrivaled season was her versatility. Unlike many bigs who struggled against guards on the perimeter, Reese excelled at switching onto various players and thrived in the fast-paced style of Unrivaled.
She expressed her gratitude for the award on social media, stating, “God, thank you for getting me through the highs & lows! Be where your feet are & allow yourself growth!”
Although she will miss the Rose club’s postseason game against the Laces due to a hand injury, Reese had an impressive first year in Unrivaled, averaging 13.1 points per game. She was the league’s leading rebounder and offensive rebounder, finished second in double-doubles, and recorded the first 20-20 game in Unrivaled history.
Before the season, Rose Club head coach Nola Henry anticipated Reese dominating the boards as she had throughout her career.
“For Angel, it doesn’t matter—3-on-3, 5-on-5, college, WNBA—she’s an incredible rebounder, right?” Henry stated. “I expect to see rebounding from her… that’s just what she’s done her entire career.”
While specifics about her injury remain undisclosed, her absence in the postseason will be a significant setback for a Rose Club that clinched 6 of its last 8 regular season games, achieving the league’s second-best record. Although not officially ruled out for a potential championship game on Monday, her participation seems improbable at this stage.
