Chicago Sky star Angel Reese has embraced a tough, physical style of play inspired by Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman. Known for her willingness to take on the hard, gritty tasks that many players avoid, Reese has made doing the “dirty work” a cornerstone of her game.
“I watched Dennis Rodman. You always need a player that’s on a team that’s willing to do the dirty work and I’m always willing to do the dirty work however I got to get it. We have great stars on our team that can do a lot of great things but I mean not a lot of times people want to do the dirty work. So I’m willing to go in there and get a black eye. I mean, I’ve been injured a lot so obviously, I’m in there banging for sure. So just continue to do whatever I can for the team, just to just to help us win.”
Reese’s comments reflect her understanding that basketball is not only about scoring points or collecting accolades. She values the less glamorous but equally important aspects of the game that contribute to winning. Rebounding, setting screens, diving for loose balls and defending the toughest matchups often do not show up in statistics but can make the difference in close games. Reese has made it clear that she will take on these challenges without hesitation.
Her admiration for Rodman is telling because he became one of the most feared and respected players in NBA history precisely for doing what others would not. Rodman’s ability to dominate on the boards, defend multiple positions and embrace physicality changed the way people viewed the role of a forward. Reese sees parallels in her own game as she works to impact every possession and influence outcomes beyond the obvious scoring plays.
By stepping into this role on the Chicago Sky, Reese provides her team with balance. She recognizes that her teammates have exceptional talent and the ability to create points, but she also understands that not everyone is willing to put their body on the line. “We have great stars on our team that can do a lot of great things but I mean not a lot of times people want to do the dirty work,” she said. Her commitment ensures that her team can compete at a high level even when games get physical or intense.
Reese’s willingness to take hits and maintain her performance has already been tested on the court. She openly acknowledges the injuries she has sustained but frames them as part of the job. “I mean, I’ve been injured a lot so obviously, I’m in there banging for sure,” she said. Rather than letting injuries limit her, Reese uses them as motivation to continue contributing and to set an example for teammates.
Her approach is also rooted in a team-first mentality. She prioritizes winning over personal recognition and is constantly looking for ways to help the Sky succeed. “So just continue to do whatever I can for the team, just to just to help us win,” she explained. This mindset underscores her value not only as a player who can fill the stat sheet but as one who strengthens the team’s culture and resilience.
Reese’s style of play has tangible effects on her teammates and the flow of games. Her willingness to fight for rebounds, contest every shot and take on the toughest defensive assignments sets a tone and gives the Sky a competitive edge. Coaches and players alike recognize how her effort creates opportunities for others to shine, making her an essential part of the team’s identity.
Beyond the physical aspects of her game, Reese’s mindset mirrors the intensity and focus of the legends she admires. By studying Rodman, she has learned how to combine mental toughness with physicality, turning what some might see as a disadvantage into a strategic strength. Her approach highlights the importance of preparation, awareness and adaptability in professional basketball.
Angel Reese’s dedication to doing the dirty work has become a defining feature of her career. It illustrates her commitment to the team and her understanding of basketball as a collaborative effort where every rebound, screen and contested shot matters. Reese’s toughness, determination and willingness to embrace the physical side of the game position her as one of the WNBA’s most impactful players.
As the Chicago Sky continue their season, Reese’s influence is clear. She is not only contributing through points and rebounds but also shaping the team’s culture of toughness and resilience. By channeling Dennis Rodman and committing to the aspects of the game that are often overlooked, Angel Reese is carving out a path as a player who leads by example and whose impact will be felt for years to come.
