Angel Reese’s Journey to the WNBA Finals

Exactly one year ago, Angel Reese set her sights on a goal for the 2026 WNBA season. On October 10, 2025, she declared on Twitter, “Manifesting the finals.”>

Fast forward to now—Reese has successfully made it to the WNBA Finals with her new team, the Atlanta Dream, following a thrilling victory over the New York Liberty on Friday night, where the final score was 85-83. This is significant for Atlanta, marking their first Finals appearance since 2013, and it’s a remarkable opportunity for Reese, as it’s her first shot at being a WNBA champion.

After the Game 3 win, Reese expressed her disbelief to ESPN, saying, “I manifested this,” referencing her earlier tweet as proof. She also reflected on her time in Atlanta, stating, “When I came to Atlanta, I knew what I was getting. This team has poured so much into me. We poured so much into each other.” She added, “I posted and tweeted, 10/10/25, that I was manifesting the Finals, and this is my moment.”

Reese took a moment to “thank God for this moment,” feeling she’s meant to be in this position. Winning a championship is not new to her; back in college, she lifted the trophy with her LSU Tigers after a fierce battle against Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes in the NCAA women’s basketball national championship three years ago.

In the Game 3 semifinal against the Liberty, Reese showcased her talents by scoring 22 points, along with nine rebounds, three assists, and two blocks. The Dream completed the sweep against New York and heads into the Finals with strong momentum, eager to secure the franchise’s first championship title.

However, the challenge is steep. The Dream will face a formidable Golden State Valkyries team, which recently surprised many by knocking out A’ja Wilson and the Las Vegas Aces. Despite the odds, Reese, who has also been recognized as this season’s Defensive Player of the Year, is optimistic. She hopes her manifestation will culminate in the ultimate success: winning the Finals trophy alongside her teammates and earning the title of WNBA champion.

Game 1 of the best-of-seven Finals series kicks off on October 17 at Golden State.