Napheesa Collier Dominates Angel Reese in Preseason Matchup: Is Stat Padding Really a Concern?

In the most talked-about preseason game of the WNBA season, Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx delivered a spectacular performance that left fans and analysts buzzing. On May 12, 2025, the Lynx took on the Chicago Sky, and Collier led her team to a 92-87 victory with a dominant 26-point performance. However, it wasn’t just her scoring ability that stole the spotlight—it was the mounting controversy surrounding Angel Reese’s play and whether she was engaging in “stat padding” during the game.

Collier’s Brilliant Performance

From the opening tip, Collier was unstoppable. The 6-foot-2 forward, known for her versatility and basketball IQ, was firing on all cylinders. She poured in 13 points in the third quarter alone, breaking open what was once a tightly contested game. Collier’s ability to score both inside and from long-range made her an impossible matchup for the Sky, who struggled to contain her.

In addition to her scoring, Collier contributed in other areas, grabbing 8 rebounds and dishing out 4 assists, showcasing her all-around game. Her performance not only impressed her teammates but also earned her recognition from analysts, with many calling it one of the best preseason performances they’ve seen in years.

However, while Collier’s game was nothing short of exceptional, the game wasn’t without its drama—enter Angel Reese, the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year and another rising star in the league.

Angel Reese and the Stat Padding Controversy

As Collier stole the show with her all-around dominance, Angel Reese’s play sparked a wave of criticism from fans and commentators alike. Despite her 14-point, 9-rebound performance, many felt that Reese was padding her stats in garbage time. Some of her late-game rebounds were seen by critics as opportunistic, taking advantage of a game that was already out of reach for the Sky. This led to widespread discussions on social media about whether Reese was unnecessarily inflating her numbers during a time when the game was already decided.

While it’s true that players often collect extra stats during garbage time, particularly when the game is no longer competitive, it’s essential to note that Reese’s performance still featured strong rebounding and timely scoring. However, her critics were quick to point out that her stats didn’t come during clutch moments but rather when the game had already been decided, making it an interesting debate on the ethics of “stat padding.”

The Rising Stars of the WNBA

The game between the Lynx and the Sky also brought to light just how competitive the WNBA has become, with players like Collier and Reese continuing to elevate their game. For Collier, her ability to put up big numbers in high-pressure situations demonstrates why she’s one of the top players in the league. Her leadership on the court has been nothing short of remarkable, and she is widely expected to be a key figure for the Lynx as they prepare for the 2025 season.

On the other hand, Reese’s performance, despite the controversy, is a reminder of the raw talent she possesses. In only her second season in the league, Reese has proven she has the potential to become one of the WNBA’s future stars. While her rebounding tactics during this game may have drawn some criticism, there’s no denying her undeniable talent and passion for the game.

The Stat Padding Debate: Is It Fair?

The discussion about stat padding has always been a contentious one in sports. While it’s not uncommon for players to pick up extra stats when the game is out of reach, the ethics behind it are often questioned. Stat padding is seen by some as an unfair tactic, particularly when it’s used to artificially inflate one’s performance, but for others, it’s simply part of the game.

In the case of Angel Reese, her late-game rebounds didn’t necessarily diminish the impact of her earlier contributions, but it did raise the question of whether players should focus more on team-oriented stats rather than individual achievements during these moments.

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and importance, these discussions will likely become more prevalent. The pressure to perform both individually and for the team has never been higher, and the line between legitimate stat accumulation and “padding” can sometimes get blurred.

Looking Ahead: A Season to Remember

As the preseason wraps up, all eyes are on the 2025 WNBA season, and these two stars will undoubtedly play pivotal roles for their respective teams. For Napheesa Collier, the Lynx are hoping that her continued growth as a leader can push the team deeper into the postseason. She’s shown that she can dominate against any team, and if she continues to play at this level, Collier could be a frontrunner for MVP honors this season.

For Angel Reese, while the debate about her stats will likely continue, she is undoubtedly a player to watch. Her potential is sky-high, and if she can maintain her level of play, she could be the cornerstone of the Sky for years to come. As for the stat-padding debate, it’s clear that Reese’s future in the league will be determined by her overall game, not just her numbers.

For more on the upcoming season and the rise of stars like Napheesa Collier and Angel Reese, be sure to keep an eye on the WNBA’s developments as the action heats up.