Angel Reese, a standout forward for the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team, has recently achieved significant accolades, underscoring her exceptional talent and impact on the court. Notably, she secured the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award, both of which are rare milestones in college basketball.
The Bob Cousy Award
The Bob Cousy Award is presented annually to the top point guard in men’s and women’s college basketball. While traditionally associated with men’s basketball, the women’s category has gained prominence in recent years. Angel Reese’s receipt of this award in 2025 highlights her versatility and exceptional playmaking abilities. Throughout the season, she averaged 19.0 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, ranking second nationally in rebounding and leading with 5.6 offensive rebounds per game. Her performance included seven 20/20 games over two seasons at LSU, exemplifying her dominance in the paint.
The John R. Wooden Award is one of the most prestigious individual honors in college basketball, bestowed upon the nation’s most outstanding player. Angel Reese’s inclusion in the Midseason Top-25 Watchlist in 2023 was a testament to her outstanding contributions to the LSU Tigers. At that time, she led the country with 14 double-doubles, recording one in every game that season. She also led the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in scoring, averaging 23.9 points per game, and ranked sixth nationally in this category. Her consistent high-level play solidified her status as a leading candidate for this esteemed award.
Impact on LSU’s Success
Angel Reese’s individual achievements have been instrumental in LSU’s team success. In her two seasons at LSU, she averaged 14.4 rebounds per game, setting a new SEC record. Her dominance in the 2023 NCAA Tournament was particularly noteworthy, as she led LSU to its first national championship. She was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament, further cementing her legacy in college basketball.
Transition to Professional Basketball
Following her illustrious college career, Angel Reese was selected by the Chicago Sky with the seventh overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. She quickly adapted to the professional level, earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team and leading the league in rebounds during her rookie season. Her defensive prowess was further recognized when she was named the Unrivaled Defensive Player of the Year in 2025, becoming the first player to receive this honor in the league’s inaugural season.
Conclusion
Angel Reese’s journey from a standout college player to a rising professional star exemplifies her dedication, skill, and impact on the game of basketball. Her receipt of the Bob Cousy Award and inclusion in the Midseason Wooden Award Watchlist are well-deserved acknowledgments of her exceptional talent and contributions to the sport. As she continues her professional career, fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching her evolution and the continued impact she will undoubtedly have on women’s basketball.
