Angel Reese on Joining Atlanta Dream

WNBA star Angel Reese recently addressed her trade from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream during her first press conference with her new team. Reflecting on her time in Chicago, she expressed gratitude for the experiences she had there.

“I experienced a lot of great things during my time in Chicago,” Reese noted. “I enjoyed growing in the first two years, but I wanted to grow even more. I loved winning and competing, and I wanted to be around people who would help me become better.” She emphasized that her drive to improve as a player was a motivating factor in her move.

Reese stated firmly, “I want to win and to be part of an organization that genuinely cares about its players.” It’s clear she thrives on teamwork and the energy that comes from a good environment.

Earlier this month, Atlanta acquired Reese from Chicago in a deal that included first-round draft picks for 2027 and 2028. They also secured the option to trade a second-round pick with Chicago in 2028.

Reese, one of the WNBA’s most prominent figures, led the league in rebounds during her two seasons with the Sky. While she has enjoyed considerable success, she’s also known for her rivalry with Caitlin Clark, another standout in women’s basketball.

This rivalry is suspected to have its roots in their competitive history, notably during the 2023 NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship Game. More recently, things heated up again when Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes faced Reese’s LSU Tigers in the Elite Eight, adding fuel to an already intense competitive atmosphere.

The tensions further escalated in the pros. During their rookie seasons, Clark faced a few contentious calls against Reese’s Sky, including a notable incident on June 16. Their rivalry took another turn in 2025 when a physical encounter between Reese and Clark led to a series of fouls and a thorough review by the referees, resulting in an aggravated foul call.

Interestingly enough, the two even had a moment of tension during a FIBA World Cup qualifier when Clark reportedly ignored Reese’s attempt at a high-five. As the rivalry continues, both players are now gearing up for the upcoming season, with each aiming to lead their teams to success.

While Clark plays for the Indiana Fever, who are in the mix for the 2026 championship, Reese’s Dream could be a formidable opponent in the league. It’ll be fascinating to see how this dynamic unfolds in the coming months.