The Atlanta Dream announced on April 6 that it has acquired two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky in exchange for its first-round picks in 2027 and 2028. As part of the agreement, Atlanta will also have the right to swap second-round picks with Chicago in 2028.
This move comes after a record-setting season for the Dream, which finished with a franchise-best 30 wins under first-year Head Coach Karl Smesko. The addition of Reese, known for her strong rebounding and scoring abilities, is expected to further strengthen Atlanta’s roster as it prepares for the upcoming season.
“Angel is a dynamic talent and a perfect fit for what we are building in Atlanta,” said Dream General Manager Dan Padover. “She has already proven herself as one of the most impactful players in the league, and her competitiveness, production and drive to win align seamlessly with our vision. This is an exciting moment for our organization and our fans.”
Reese led Louisiana State University to a national championship in 2023 before joining the WNBA. In her first two professional seasons, she averaged 14 points and nearly 13 rebounds per game while setting records for rookie rebounds per game (13.1) and consecutive double-doubles (15). She was named All-Rookie Team in 2024 and became the only player in league history to average at least twelve rebounds per game over each of her first two seasons.
“I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to join the Atlanta Dream organization,” said Reese. “I’m focused on continuing to grow my game, competing at the highest level, connecting with the fans, and giving everything I’ve got to the Dream.”
Coach Smesko said: “Angel’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor is elite. Her energy, toughness and instincts will thrive in our system, and we’re excited to integrate her into the style of play we are constructing here in Atlanta.”
The team saw several players reach career milestones last year including Allisha Gray’s fourth-place finish in MVP voting; Rhyne Howard becoming fastest ever to reach three hundred career three-pointers; Naz Hillmon earning Sixth Player of Year honors; Brionna Jones receiving All-Star recognition while doubling her career total of double-doubles.
The Atlanta Dream maintains its role as a key team in the WNBA according to the official website. The organization supports education by organizing initiatives like backpack drives that supply school materials for students according to the official website. The team focuses on empowering girls through basketball education, leadership development, and community initiatives according to the official website.
Ownership partners include Larry Gottesdiener, Suzanne Abair and Renee Montgomery according to the official website. The franchise serves as Southeast region’s only WNBA team according to the official website.
The Dream will open its season at home against defending champion Las Vegas Aces on May 17 at State Farm Arena.
