The Chicago Sky traded two-time All-Star forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream on Monday.
In exchange, Chicago receives Atlanta’s first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 and the right to swap second-round picks in 2028.
Reese, 23, led the WNBA in rebounding in each of her first two seasons, averaging 13.1 per game in 2024 and 12.6 last season. Those are the two highest single-season marks in league history.
“This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties,” Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a release. “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.”
Reese has recorded 49 double-doubles in 64 career games.
“I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to join the Atlanta Dream organization,” Reese said. “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.”
The Dream finished 30-14 last season, setting a franchise record for wins.
Drafted seventh overall out of LSU in 2024, Reese has averaged 14.1 points, 12.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.4 steals through her first two seasons.
“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 expressed frustrations with the Sky during last season’s 10-34 campaign.
“I’m not settling for the same s–t we did this year,” Reese told the Chicago Tribune in September. “We have to get good players. We have to get great players. That’s a non-negotiable for me. I’m willing and wanting to play with the best.
“… I’d like to be here for my career, but if things don’t pan out, obviously I might have to move in a different direction and do what’s best for me. But while I am here, I’m going to try to stay open-minded about what I have here and maximize that as much as I can.”
The Sky suspended her for the first half of their Sept. 7 game due to the comments deemed “detrimental to the team.” Reese ended up sitting out the final four games of the season, reportedly for a back injury. She later apologized to her teammates.
–Field Level Media
