Sophie Cunningham has shared a different perspective on Angel Reese’s emotional reaction during the WNBA Finals, suggesting the Atlanta Dream star’s frustration may have helped her team recognize what needed to change.
Reese attracted attention in Game 2 against the Golden State Valkyries after repeatedly calling for the ball in the post.
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When teammates chose another option, she responded with animated gestures, sparking debate about her body language.
However, Cunningham believes the moment carried a message Atlanta needed to hear.
Speaking on her No Hesitation podcast, the Indiana Fever guard admitted Reese could have handled the situation better.
“Do I like the body language? Do I think that it could have been better? Absolutely,” said Cunningham. “And I think if she watches this back, I think she could have said the same thing.
“But three, sometimes you gotta do it. If your team’s not getting you the damn ball, then if you see one of your star players getting frustrated and getting pissed off, then it’s like, ‘Oh, they’re not messing around.
“We need to get her the damn ball.’ I think the coaching staff saw it; I think everyone on the bench saw it; her teammates felt the energy; and she did what she needed to do in order to put yet another game on her back.”
In Game 2, Reese had been working to establish position near the basket, but the ball went elsewhere. Her frustration quickly became a talking point, but talk quickly shifted back to her performance.
Reese finished with 30 points and 16 rebounds, shooting 10-for-16 from the field as Atlanta won 79-65 to tie the series. Her presence in the paint gave the Dream a boost and showed how influential she could be when involved consistently.
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Reese carried that momentum into Game 3, helping Atlanta defeat Golden State 97-71. She recorded 21 points and 12 rebounds, giving the Dream a 2-1 series advantage and putting them within two wins of the championship.
The performance extended her run of consecutive Finals double-doubles, underscoring her impact on the biggest stage.
Head coach Karl Smesko has praised Reese’s development, highlighting her determination to improve throughout the season.
“She very well might be the most improved player from the beginning of the season to right now,” Smesko said.
Cunningham’s defense of Reese highlights the difference between showing frustration and allowing it to damage team chemistry. While expressive body language can invite criticism, it can also signal that a team needs to adjust.
With Game 4 approaching in Atlanta, the Dream have a chance to strengthen their hold on the series. Golden State will be eager to respond, while Reese’s teammates will need to keep finding her in advantageous positions.
Reese’s reaction may remain a subject of debate, but her production has made its own statement.