WNBA Star Angel Reese Traded to Atlanta Dream

The Chicago Sky send the two-time All-Star to the Dream in a multi-pick deal.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:04pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented forms of WNBA players in motion, with the court and ball also broken down into abstract shapes and planes in the official colors of the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream.The trade of rising WNBA star Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream represents a major roster shakeup that could reshape the Eastern Conference landscape.Chicago Today

The Atlanta Dream have acquired two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky in exchange for first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028, as well as the right to swap second-round picks in 2028. Reese, the 2024 Rookie of the Year runner-up, averaged 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds in her two seasons with the Sky.

Why it matters

The trade represents a major roster shakeup for both teams. Reese is considered one of the league's rising stars, and her addition to the Dream's already talented roster makes them an even stronger championship contender. For the Sky, the move signals a potential shift in their long-term strategy as they look to rebuild around younger talent.

The details

In the deal, the Dream sent the Sky first-round picks in 2027 and 2028, as well as the right to swap second-round picks in 2028. The 6-foot-3 Reese was the No. 7 overall pick by the Sky in the 2024 WNBA draft after leading LSU to the 2023 national championship. She has been a two-time WNBA All-Star in her first two seasons, averaging 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds per game.

  • Reese was traded to the Dream on Monday, April 6, 2026.
  • Reese was the No. 7 overall pick by the Sky in the 2024 WNBA draft.

The players

Angel Reese

A two-time WNBA All-Star and the 2024 Rookie of the Year runner-up, Reese was traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream.

Dan Padover

The general manager of the Atlanta Dream, who stated that Reese is a 'dynamic talent' and a 'perfect fit' for the team's vision.

Jeff Pagliocca

The general manager of the Chicago Sky, who said the trade was designed to 'achieve roster balance' and represents a 'great opportunity for all parties.'

Karl Smesko

The head coach of the Atlanta Dream, who said Reese's 'energy, toughness and instincts will thrive' in the team's system.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Angel is a dynamic talent and a perfect fit for what we are building in Atlanta. 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.”

— Dan Padover, Atlanta Dream General Manager

“This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties. Angel has achieved many record-breaking milestones in her first two years in the WNBA and has been a competitive force for the Sky. We are thankful for her many important contributions to this league and this game, and we know she will continue to have a big impact on the court and beyond. We wish Angel all the best in her next chapter.”

— Jeff Pagliocca, Chicago Sky General Manager

“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, Atlanta Dream Head Coach

“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 trade is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with Reese joining the Dream roster for the start of the 2026 WNBA season.

The takeaway

The acquisition of Angel Reese represents a major coup for the Atlanta Dream, who have added an elite young talent to an already formidable roster. The trade also signals a potential shift in direction for the Chicago Sky as they look to rebuild around younger players. This move could have significant implications for the balance of power in the WNBA in the coming seasons.