Angel Reese Embraces Fresh Start with Atlanta Dream

All-Star forward says she wanted 'more' and to be surrounded by players who can help her improve.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:06pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a WNBA basketball game, with the players' forms abstracted into sharp, overlapping shapes in a vibrant color palette.Reese's trade to the Dream signals a new chapter in her career as she seeks to elevate her game and compete for a WNBA championship.Chicago Today

The WNBA's Chicago Sky recently traded All-Star forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for first-round picks in 2027 and 2028. Reese, who has faced criticism for her shooting struggles, says she's grateful for her time in Chicago but wanted a new challenge and to be around players who can help her become a better player. The 23-year-old is excited to join an already strong Dream team and help them compete for a championship.

Why it matters

Reese's trade to Atlanta is a high-profile move that could have significant implications for both teams. The Sky are looking to the future with the draft picks, while the Dream are betting that Reese can be the missing piece to their title aspirations. Reese's comments also provide insight into her mindset and desire to keep improving as a player.

The details

In the trade, the Chicago Sky sent Reese, a two-time All-Star, to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for first-round picks in 2027 and 2028. Reese, who has been criticized for her shooting struggles, said she's grateful for her time in Chicago but wanted a new challenge and to be surrounded by players who can help her become a better player. The 23-year-old forward is excited to join an already strong Dream team and help them compete for a championship.

  • The trade between the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream was completed on April 15, 2026.
  • Reese spoke to the media about the trade on April 18, 2026.

The players

Angel Reese

A 23-year-old forward who was a two-time WNBA All-Star with the Chicago Sky before being traded to the Atlanta Dream.

Chicago Sky

The WNBA team that traded Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for first-round picks in 2027 and 2028.

Atlanta Dream

The WNBA team that acquired Reese from the Chicago Sky, betting that she can be the missing piece to their championship aspirations.

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What they’re saying

“I'm always gonna be grateful for that because I did experience a lot of great things. I enjoyed being able to grow within my first two years, but I wanted more. I love to win, I love to compete and I wanted to be surrounded by people that can make me better.”

— Angel Reese, WNBA Player

“And I am not satisfied with what I am as a player, and I felt like being around these kinds of players would help me be better. I can help them in different ways to help them win, and that's all I ever wanted.”

— Angel Reese, WNBA Player

What’s next

The Atlanta Dream will look to integrate Reese into their lineup and make a push for the WNBA championship in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Reese's trade to the Atlanta Dream represents a fresh start for the young star as she seeks to surround herself with players who can help her reach the next level. The move also highlights the Sky's willingness to part with a talented player in exchange for future draft capital, signaling a potential shift in their competitive timeline.