Azura Stevens Makes WNBA History in Loss to Angel Reese
Azura Stevens delivered a record-breaking performance for the Los Angeles Sparks, but it wasn’t enough to stop Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky from mounting a late comeback to win 97–86.
Stevens went nuclear in the first half—6-for-6 shooting, 17 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, and 4 blocks. By the final whistle, she had logged 21 points, 7 rebounds. And a historic combo of 4+ steals, 4+ blocks, and 4 threes on 80%+ shooting—a first in WNBA history.
Angel Reese Holds Strong Despite Early Blow
Despite being outshined early, Angel Reese bounced back with 18 points and 17 rebounds, locking down Stevens in the second half. With help from Kamilia Cardoso’s career-high 27 points and Ariel Atkins’ clutch buckets, the Sky erased a 12-point deficit and closed the game on a 30–17 run.
Though Stevens dominated early, it was Reese’s second-half defensive focus and Chicago’s team effort that proved decisive.
Lisa Leslie’s Mentorship Shines Through
Reese’s transformation isn’t just raw talent, it’s also rooted in mentorship from WNBA legend Lisa Leslie. Reese credited Leslie after the win:
“She sends me Bible verses, she tells me I’m a beast on the boards. That’s real love.”
Leslie, who called Reese her “me 2.0,” has helped refine her footwork, finishing, and confidence. That work is paying off: Reese logged the first 20–20 game of the WNBA season and holds the record for most consecutive double-doubles by a rookie.
This game was more than numbers, it was a clash of stars. Stevens made history. Reese made the difference. And Chicago reminded the league that collective grit beats individual brilliance.
With Lisa Leslie in her corner and the Sky tightening up their chemistry. Reese’s rise and Chicago’s turnaround could just be getting started.
Read More: ESPN Calls Out Angel Reese’s Shooting Woes in Chicago’s Shaky Season
