Atlanta Dream Acquire Superstar Angel Reese in Blockbuster Trade

The addition of the elite rebounder and scorer should boost the Dream's title hopes and energize the city of Atlanta.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:11pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the silhouettes of WNBA players in motion, capturing the power and dynamism of the sport.The acquisition of superstar Angel Reese injects new energy and excitement into the Atlanta Dream's championship aspirations.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Dream have acquired two-time WNBA All-Star forward Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky in a trade that sends the Dream's first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028 to Chicago. Reese, a dominant interior presence who led the league in rebounding last season, is expected to thrive in the Dream's fast-paced, 3-point shooting offense and provide a major boost to the team's championship aspirations.

Why it matters

The addition of Reese gives the Dream one of the most talented rosters in the WNBA and should make them an immediate title contender. Her arrival also brings a new level of star power and excitement to the Atlanta market, with the prospect of a highly anticipated rivalry with Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark further captivating fans.

The details

Reese, 23, led the Chicago Sky in scoring last season at 14.7 points per game and set a WNBA record by averaging 12.6 rebounds per contest. Her elite rebounding ability will allow the Dream to generate more second-chance points and fast-break opportunities for their 3-point shooting specialists. The Dream are expected to re-sign guards Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard, creating a formidable starting lineup around Reese.

  • The Dream struck the deal with the Sky less than 24 hours into the WNBA free agency period.
  • Reese led the league in rebounding with 12.6 boards per game in the 2025 season.

The players

Angel Reese

A two-time WNBA All-Star forward who led the league in rebounding last season with the Chicago Sky.

Caitlin Clark

A star guard for the Indiana Fever who has a personal rivalry with Reese dating back to their college days.

Allisha Gray

A guard for the Atlanta Dream who is expected to be re-signed to play alongside Reese.

Rhyne Howard

A guard for the Atlanta Dream who is expected to be re-signed to play alongside Reese.

Karl Smesko

The head coach of the Atlanta Dream, who praised Reese's ability to thrive in the team's fast-paced, 3-point shooting offense.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Karl Smesko, Head Coach, Atlanta Dream

“I'm beyond grateful for the opportunity to join the Atlanta Dream organization. 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.”

— Angel Reese

What’s next

The Dream and Fever are expected to meet several times this season, with the Reese-Clark rivalry being a major storyline. Ticket demand for Dream games has already spiked 15x following the Reese trade.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Angel Reese gives the Atlanta Dream one of the most talented rosters in the WNBA and makes them an immediate title contender. Her arrival also brings a new level of star power and excitement to the Atlanta market, with the prospect of a highly anticipated rivalry with Caitlin Clark further captivating fans.