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Minnesota Lynx head coach and president Cheryl Reeve is facing intense scrutiny over a decision that might haunt the franchise for years to come. The Lynx had a prime opportunity to draft LSU superstar Angel Reese during the 2024 WNBA Draft but made the surprising choice to pass on her.

Four months ago, instead of selecting Reese with the No. 7 pick, the Lynx traded down to acquire Alissa Pili, a move that has since sparked widespread criticism. The Chicago Sky were quick to capitalize on the Lynx’s decision, giving up two first-round picks, a second-round pick, and Sika Kone in exchange for the rights to draft Reese.

So far, the Sky’s gamble has paid off in a big way. Reese has emerged as one of the top contenders for Rookie of the Year, averaging an impressive 13.4 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. Her standout performance even earned her a spot in the 2024 All-Star Game, solidifying her as one of the league’s rising stars.

It was a personal decision by Reeve

Meanwhile, the Lynx have struggled to get much out of Pili, who is averaging just 2.4 points in a mere 6.4 minutes per game. With Reese making waves in Chicago and Pili’s limited production, fans and analysts alike are questioning whether Reeve’s decision to pass on Reese was a monumental misstep.

In a scathing opinion piece by Patrick Reusse of The Minnesota Star Tribune, he raised the tough question: “Could Reeve, also the team president, really afford to not draft talent because she didn’t want to coach someone?”

Reusse suggested that Reeve’s personal preferences might have influenced the decision to trade down and avoid taking Reese.

Fans don’t forgive Lynx president

Fans on social media have not been shy about voicing their displeasure. “Yeah, Angel is in a better situation to shine in Chicago, but it’s a super valid take that the Lynx goofed by passing up on Angel just to bury Pili on the bench,” one fan wrote. Another commented, “I bet $2.2 billion dollars in media rights they regret passing on Reese.”

Others took a more direct jab at Reeve, with one fan saying, “This made me giggle because I know she regrets it.” The lack of maturity and sportsmanship often criticized during Reese’s college career did not seem to faze some, who argued, “Pro sports are about winning, and to do that, you need the best players.”

However, not all opinions were critical. Some fans defended Reeve’s choice, claiming that Pili might have been a better fit for the Lynx’s team structure.

But with Reese thriving in Chicago, the Lynx’s decision continues to cast a shadow over the franchise. Only time will tell if Reeve will regret passing on the future star-or if the Lynx might attempt to bring Reese to Minnesota through a trade down the road.