In what may become a turning point for the Chicago Sky's rollercoaster season, Rebecca Allen's WNBA brilliance on Wednesday night raised a crucial question: who's the true leader of this team? While rookie sensation Angel Reese notched another double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, it was Allen's 27-point outburst off the bench that helped the Sky secure an 87–76 win over the Dallas Wings, possibly changing the narrative in the Windy City.
Allen, who finished just one point shy of her career high, torched the Wings on 9-of-13 shooting, including a lethal 5-for-7 from beyond the arc. The Sky, now 6–13, completed a season sweep of Dallas, reports Deadspin. This reminded the league that leadership doesn't always come from the loudest storylines, but sometimes from the most efficient stat lines.
Allen vs Reese: A Tale of Two Impacts
Angel Reese has been the face of the franchise in her rookie campaign, generating massive headlines with her relentless rebounding, charisma, and fan appeal. Coming into the game, she was averaging a remarkable 13.2 points and 12.9 rebounds per game. Athlon Sports reports she was posting double-doubles in seven straight games. She also made WNBA history by recording six consecutive games with at least 15 rebounds.
But while Reese continues to dominate the glass, Allen has emerged as a steady offensive force and calming veteran presence. As noted by Fansided, some have speculated earlier this season whether Allen should start over Reese to give the rookie time to develop in a lower-pressure role. Allen's recent performance only fuels that discussion, especially considering she's been consistent whenever given more responsibility.
With Reese's offensive game still developing (note that she shot just 63% from the free throw line and has struggled with turnovers) the debate isn't whether she's valuable, but whether Rebecca Allen's WNBA performance consistency could be a better focal point in the short term.
@wbbnation Rebecca Allen BLOCKS 🔥🔥🔥in game against Liberty! #wnba #womensbasketball #blocked #espnw
♬ original sound - Women’s Sports Nation
A Spark Off the Bench or the Engine to Start?
Allen's impact on Wednesday went beyond scoring. Her three long-range shots late in the second quarter pushed Chicago to a 45–37 halftime lead they never relinquished. Her presence also opened up the floor, allowing Reese and others more space to operate inside.
That dual-threat dynamic might be the key to unlocking Chicago's full potential. With veterans like Rachel Banham contributing and centre Kamilla Cardoso returning from international duty, coach Tyler Marsh may be tempted to tinker with the lineup again.
And fans are already wondering: is Allen's efficiency — averaging 9.0 points on fewer than eight shots per game — what this team needs more of?
@itsallaboutbasketball Witness a thrilling moment from the latest WNBA showdown as Rebecca Allen steps up in a high-pressure situation! With the game on the line and tensions running high, Allen executes a perfectly timed three-pointer, leveling the score at 65 and sending the crowd into a frenzy. This clip highlights her elite skills and clutch performance, as well as the relentless effort from other star players that contributed to the action-packed game, where the Sky triumphed over the Sparks 97-86. This highlight showcases not just a pivotal play but the heart and determination of the players as they battle it out on the court. Watch as Kamilla Cardoso shines with her career-high of 27 points, supporting her team's impressive performance and making this game a must-see for all basketball fans. Don’t miss out on any of the excitement as the 29th season of the WNBA unfolds! #WNBA #RebeccaAllen #BasketballHighlights #SkyVsSparks #ClutchMoments #WNBALive #BasketballCommunity #WomenInSports #GameChanger #SportsHighlights #WNBASeason29 #ClutchShooters
♬ original sound - itsallaboutbasketball - itsallaboutbasketball
Sky's Ceiling Depends on Balance
There's no denying that Angel Reese is the long-term investment. Her presence alone brings fans, media attention, and relentless hustle. But as the Sky look to claw back into playoff relevance, it's Rebecca Allen's now that might matter more than Reese's next.
That doesn't mean benching Reese, but rather leveraging Allen's veteran savvy in higher-stakes situations. Perhaps it's Allen who should take late-game touches. Or maybe she simply needs more minutes alongside the starters to elevate the unit's offensive efficiency.
In a league driven by stats, narratives, and chemistry, Rebecca Allen's WNBA numbers speak loudly. And while Reese might be the future, Allen's current form may be the key to Chicago's season.
