Angel Reese Joins Atlanta Dream, Eager for New Chapter

After turbulent start in Chicago, the young star seeks stability and a championship culture in Atlanta

Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:51pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant neon brushstrokes and splatters of color, capturing the raw energy and competitive spirit of a basketball player in motion.Angel Reese's move to the Atlanta Dream signals a new chapter of growth and opportunity for the young WNBA star.Chicago Today

After two tumultuous seasons with the Chicago Sky, WNBA player Angel Reese is joining the Atlanta Dream, signaling a major shift in her professional trajectory. Reese, known for her dominant rebounding and competitive fire, is leaving the chaos of Chicago behind to pursue a fresh start and the chance to compete for a championship in a more nurturing environment.

Why it matters

Reese's move to Atlanta represents more than just a roster change - it's a recalibration of her purpose and a chance to develop her game without the constant media scrutiny that surrounded her in Chicago. The Dream organization's commitment to player development and creating a winning culture could be the missing piece that helps Reese reach her full potential.

The details

During her time with the Chicago Sky, Reese showed flashes of brilliance on the court, establishing herself as a dominant rebounder and emotional leader. However, the constant spotlight and turbulence off the court made it difficult for her to fully blossom. In Atlanta, Reese hopes to find the stability and support system she needs to take her game to the next level and compete for a championship.

  • Reese spent her first two WNBA seasons with the Chicago Sky from 2024-2025.
  • Reese was traded to the Atlanta Dream in April 2026 ahead of the upcoming season.

The players

Angel Reese

A young WNBA star known for her relentless rebounding and competitive spirit, Reese is looking to reclaim her trajectory after two turbulent seasons with the Chicago Sky.

Renee Montgomery

A part-owner of the Atlanta Dream, Montgomery's visible involvement and commitment to the team's players stood out to Reese as she made the decision to join the organization.

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What they’re saying

“I wanted to be surrounded by people that can make me better... I felt like being around these kinds of players would help me be better, and I can help them in different ways, to help them win.”

— Angel Reese, WNBA Player

“Having a (team) that really wanted me and knew what my talents are... being able to talk to players that genuinely know what I am and who I am as a person, but also as a player... It low-key makes me emotional because I haven't had this.”

— Angel Reese, WNBA Player

What’s next

Reese will join the Atlanta Dream for the start of the 2026 WNBA season, where she will look to establish herself as a leader and help the team compete for a championship.

The takeaway

Angel Reese's move to the Atlanta Dream represents a pivotal moment in her young career, as she seeks to leave behind the chaos and scrutiny of Chicago to find the stability, support, and winning culture she needs to reach her full potential as a WNBA superstar.