Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Angel Reese’s 31-Point Game Clinches Playoff Berth

8/24/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Angel Reese scored 31 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to clinch a playoff berth in a 99-89 win over Phoenix Mercury.
The game gave Reese her 26th double-double of the season, setting a franchise record.
Reese became the second WNBA player with at least 25 double-doubles in a season, joining Alyssa Thomas.
She set the Dream’s single-season record for offensive rebounds with 175 and counting.

History

Historical Context

The WNBA launched in 1996 and began play in 1997 with eight teams, crowned the Houston Comets—led by Cynthia Cooper, who earned Finals MVP—as champions (65-51 over New York). Expansion in 1998-2000 grew the league, fueling higher viewership that now spotlights stars like Angel Reese, whose 31-point, 14-rebound game echoes the early dominance of Cooper.

1 of 2

Story summary

Angel Reese scored 31 points and grabbed 14 rebounds to clinch a playoff berth in a 99-89 win over Phoenix Mercury.
The game gave Reese her 26th double-double of the season, setting a franchise record.
Reese became the second WNBA player with at least 25 double-doubles in a season, joining Alyssa Thomas.
She set the Dream’s single-season record for offensive rebounds with 175 and counting.

1 / 2