Angel Reese, the standout star who had taken a break from basketball during the offseason, found herself drawn back to the sport by persistent calls from Unrivaled, the 3×3 basketball league co-founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. Despite initially choosing not to participate in the league’s second season starting in January, Reese eventually accepted an invitation to rejoin the competition late in the season, marking her Unrivaled return.
Encouragement from Coaches and Teammates Led to Reese’s Comeback
Throughout the season, Reese received continuous encouragement from Unrivaled’s coaches, players, and especially her Rose BC teammates, who secured the league’s inaugural championship. Kahleah Copper, a teammate, emphasized Reese’s importance, saying,
“She’s Rose basketball. The culture we created was on her back.”
This support played a key role in Reese’s decision to come back for the final three games of the season.
A Busy Offseason Didn’t Stop Reese’s Return
Reese’s offseason was filled with activities beyond the court, including walking the Victoria’s Secret fashion show runway, acting on the Netflix series The Hunting Wives, and promoting her signature sneaker, the AR1s, during an Australian tour. Reflecting on her unexpected return, Reese commented,
“Literally I was in Australia and they were like ‘You want to come back?’ I was like, ‘alright.’ Literally I was on the beach last week, and now I’m here.”
Immediate Impact After Returning to Competitive Play
Despite months away from basketball, Reese quickly regained her form in her first two games back with Rose BC, delivering strong performances including a 15-rebound game against the Laces. Her efforts helped Rose BC secure a playoff berth. If the team progresses to the semifinals, they will compete at the Barclays Center during a double-header on March 2.
Significance of Reese’s Return to Unrivaled and Next Steps
Angel Reese’s return boosts Rose BC’s chances as they head into the crucial playoff phase of Unrivaled. Her ability to balance a high-profile offseason with top-level basketball highlights her remarkable versatility. Observers will be watching closely to see if Reese’s presence can help her team advance deep into the semifinals at the Barclays Center, further elevating both her and Unrivaled’s growing profile in women’s basketball.
