Lisa Leslie might be the biggest coaching snub in WNBA history, and it’s wild that no team has locked her in yet. The 2025 coaching list is packed with diverse experiences—seven of the eight new hires have never held a WNBA head coaching job. College, assistant roles, and international backgrounds made the cut, but Leslie? Overlooked. If things had gone differently, ‘Big 3 League’ might have been her stepping stone. Now, she’s mentoring Angel Reese, and it’s already paying off.

Three-time WNBA MVP didn’t hold back during a recent sitdown with Reese on the Unapologetically Angel podcast. “The biggest advice I have for you is going to be how you shoot your layups, period. We’re going to fix that,” Leslie said. While praising Reese’s defense, ball handling, and work ethic, Leslie zeroed in on her finishing at the rim—a glaring weakness last season.

Leslie’s critique wasn’t just about pointing out flaws; it was a call to action. “The fact that you already have that attitude, you’re going to get better,” Leslie added. “And I can help you get better. I’m positive.”

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Reese made it clear in this response that Leslie was someone she’s always looked up to, both on and off the court. Angel Reese’s game looks different in Unrivaled, and everyone agrees—especially after Lisa Leslie’s blunt criticism. And it’s clear why. Leslie called out areas where Reese needed to improve, and the young star took that to heart. On February 18, she started alongside Lexie Hull and Chelsea Gray for the Rose Basketball Club against Vinyl Basketball Club. After a slow start, she found her rhythm, finishing with eight points and nine rebounds in just 10 minutes of play. She shot an efficient 2-of-3 from the field and a perfect 2-of-2 from the free-throw line, with four of her rebounds coming on the offensive glass.

In the Rose/Vinyl game, Reese showcased a more polished offensive game—her footwork was sharper, she finished through contact better, and her efficiency in the paint was a noticeable upgrade. The impact of Leslie’s influence was obvious.

Moreover, Reese even took it up a notch, dropping 16 points on an efficient 3-of-6 shooting, including a flawless 5-of-5 from the charity stripe. She dominated the boards with 15 rebounds—five offensive—while adding an assist and a steal in just 19 minutes. This wasn’t just an improved stat line; it was a direct answer to Leslie’s challenge.

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Fans are already seeing glimpses of her refined game, especially in her recent performances. With the Sky’s new HC, Tyler Marsh, stepping in after Teresa Weatherspoon’s departure, Reese’s growth could be the spark Chicago needs.

Angel Reese’s game is changing, and fans are noticing

As one of the game’s greatest, Lisa’s mentorship could be the key to unlocking Reese’s full potential. If Reese continues on this trajectory, she’s not just improving her game—she’s setting the stage for a breakout sophomore season.

A fan tweeted, “Lisa Leslie might be the biggest coaching snub in WNBA history, how tf nobody hire her?!? She gonna help Angel Reese go to the next level I’m already seeing some improvement in her finishing skills in this Rose/Vinyl game.” That sentiment is gaining traction as Reese’s recent performance backs it up. She posted 16 points on 3-6 shooting, a perfect 5-5 from the free throw line, and dominated the glass with 15 rebounds (including five offensive boards). Her finishing at the rim, a point of emphasis under Leslie’s mentorship, is visibly improving

Another Fan added, “I love Lisa Leslie giving Angel pointers. That’s how the goats supposed to help the youngins.” Leslie’s impact is clear—not just in Angel Reese’s confidence but in the way she’s attacking the paint with more control and efficiency.

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Another observed, “Lisa Leslie advice is always to start inside. She don’t fw all the outside shots they like 3s now OG!! #Unrivaled.” That inside-first approach is evident in Reese’s recent shot selection. She’s taking high-percentage looks and staying aggressive without forcing jump shots.

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Reese’s growth is noticeable. “Angel Reese is getting to the rim, she’s gotta just have that confidence to go back up with the ball. Lisa Leslie is spot on,” one fan pointed out. Her increase in free throw attempts—going 5-5 in this game—shows she’s embracing physicality and finishing stronger.

And while some joke about Leslie’s influence, a fan captured the reality —“Lisa Leslie is working HARD to make Angel Reese happen…”—and it’s working. Reese’s evolution under Leslie’s guidance is becoming impossible to ignore.

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Everyone, from legends like Leslie to fans on social media, is saying the same thing: Angel Reese’s game is changing.