Angel Reese Issues Powerful Statement After Team USA Win

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect

Angel Reese Issues Powerful Statement After Team USA Win

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Sep 10, 2026 10:06 PM ET

Angel Reese is making her presence felt on the defensive end of the court as Team USA continues its dominant FIBA World Cup run. The Atlanta Dream star’s latest statement, however, is turning more heads as she strengthens her case to win major honors in both the tournament and the WNBA.

In a video shared by FIBA on X, Reese was asked about her mindset after putting on a defensive showcase against Hungary. Reese recorded nine points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block in 18 minutes on the court.

“Honestly, the mindset I bring to every game: be able to come out there, get the punches, get rebounds, get blocks, get steals,” Reese stated.

Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Her latest performance, along with her play throughout the tournament, has made the Dream star a strong candidate for the FIBA World Cup’s Best Defensive Player award. In fact, she is currently the fan favorite to win the honor, according to a FIBA poll.

For what it’s worth, Reese is also in contention to win a similar award in the WNBA. She currently anchors Atlanta’s defense, leading the league in rebounds (12.4) and ranking third in steals (1.8).

With that said, Reese is confident that she’s on her way to becoming the best defensive player in the world.

“I know I’m getting Defensive Player of the Year for a reason,” Reese added. “And I’m just going to continue to prove that.”

In case you’re living under a rock, Angel Reese has been ballin’ in Berlin #FIBAWWC pic.twitter.com/hpHqblk3vR
— FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup (@FIBAWWC) September 10, 2026

The FIBA World Cup gives Reese another stage to showcase her defensive prowess before she returns to the Dream in the near future. If she continues to stand out internationally, it won’t be long before her statement becomes a reality.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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