Cunningham Questions Reese’s Layup Finishing

Cunningham and Hanlen focused on Reese’s difficulty converting close-range shots during an episode of their “No Hesitation” podcast released on November 2. Reese’s Atlanta Dream had looked strong through the opening trio of WNBA Finals games, but her shooting dropped off in the second half of the series.

Reese made 22 of 39 field-goal attempts in the first three games, a 56.4% rate, while averaging 21.7 points per game. Atlanta led the series 2-1 at that stage.

In Games 4 through 7, Reese went 12 for 45 from the field, or 26.7%, and averaged 9.5 points. She also had 19 turnovers over those four games, and Atlanta went 1-3.

Cunningham said Reese’s early dominance came while she was making her layups, adding that the forward regularly gets close-range opportunities. Hanlen said improving her touch around the rim could help her reach another level, while noting that some missed open layups were difficult to explain.

The discussion echoed a recurring criticism of Reese’s game since she entered the WNBA in 2024. Both speakers framed finishing around the basket as an area for improvement, with the offseason ahead as a chance for Reese to work on it.