Angel Reese has given basketball fans another reason to talk after producing a stunning no-look pass that nearly became one of the highlights of the 2026 WNBA Finals.
The Atlanta Dream forward caught an outlet pass that was drifting over her head, saved it from going out of bounds and immediately sent an over-the-head pass toward teammate Rhyne Howard.
Kim Mulkey can’t hide her pride as Angel Reese’s tough layup brings her former coach out of her seat
Howard was fouled before she could finish the play, but Reese's improvisation had already captured the attention of viewers.
One social media user summed up the moment with a comparison that quickly caught on: "IT'S LIKE IF JOKIC AND SHAQ HAD A BABY".
The reference brings together two very different basketball superstars. Shaquille O'Neal was renowned for his overwhelming strength and dominance near the basket, while Nikola Jokic has become one of the NBA's most creative passing big men.
Reese's game is not identical to either legend's, but her combination of rebounding, physicality and improving court vision explains why fans are making the comparison.
The pass that had fans talking
The reaction to Reese's near-assist spread quickly across social media, with supporters imagining how memorable the sequence would have been had Howard converted the opportunity: "Would’ve been assist of the playoffs !! 😭"
Another fan praised Reese's overall influence on the league, writing: "She’s runs the league I’ve seen enough I’m sorry Aja you still the goat though".
Others were simply enjoying the show: "She Showing out 😭😭😭"
"The finals have activated Angel Prime," another said.
The excitement reflects Reese's growing reputation as a player who can influence games in several ways. She is an elite rebounder, a powerful presence inside and increasingly willing to create opportunities for her teammates.
Reese is backing up the hype in the Finals
The viral pass was not an isolated moment in an otherwise quiet performance. Reese has been central to Atlanta's push for a championship, producing three consecutive double-doubles to open the Finals.
After recording 14 points and 12 rebounds in Game 1, she erupted for 30 points and 16 rebounds as the Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries 79-65 in Game 2.
She followed that performance with 21 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and three steals in Game 3, helping Atlanta secure a 97-71 victory and a 2-1 series lead.
Those numbers underline why the Shaq-Jokic comparison resonates. Like O'Neal, Reese can use her strength and positioning to control the paint. The passing sequence, meanwhile, showcased the creativity that fans associate with Jokic.
Of course, one highlight does not put Reese on the same level as two NBA greats. But it does demonstrate the range of skills she is bringing to the biggest stage of her young career.
With Atlanta now leading the best-of-seven series, Reese has a chance to turn her individual performances into something even more significant: a championship.
For fans, the no-look pass was a glimpse of her creativity. For the Dream, her rebounding, scoring and defensive energy could prove even more important as the Finals continue.