Reese traded from Sky to Dream for first-round draft picks

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Dream acquired two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky on Monday in exchange for first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028. Atlanta also receives the right to swap second-round picks with Chicago in 2028. The 6-foot-3 Reese averaged 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds in her two seasons with Chicago, earning All-Star honors each year while finishing as the runner-up for rookie of the year in 2024. "Angel is a dynamic talent and a perfect fit for what we are building in Atlanta," general manager Dan Padover said in a statement released by the Dream. "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, 23, was the No. 7 overall pick by Chicago in the 2024 WNBA draft after leading LSU to the 2023 national championship. The trade comes after Reese expressed frustrations late in last season's 10-34 finish for the Sky. She told the Chicago Tribune that she "might have to move in a different direction and do what's best for me" if the team didn't improve its outlook. She later apologized to the team for the comments. "I'm not settling for the same ... we did this year," Reese told the newspaper. "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. And however I can help to get the best here, that's what I'm going to do this offseason. "So it's going to be very, very important this offseason to make sure we attract the best of the best because we can't settle for what we have this year." The Sky suspended Reese for half of a game for comments deemed "detrimental to the team." The team listed her as dealing with a back injury for its final three games, raising speculation about her long-term future in Chicago. "This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties," Chicago general manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a statement released by the Sky. "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 averaged 14.7 points last season and led the WNBA with 12.6 rebounds per game. She joins an Atlanta roster that boasts other established stars and flourished under the leadership of coach Karl Smesko. Allisha Gray finished fourth in the MVP voting last season. Rhyne Howard became the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 300 career 3-pointers. Naz Hillmon was named Sixth Player of the Year and Brionna Jones was an All-Star. "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." Atlanta set a franchise record with 30 wins in 2025. Smesko said Reese will add elite skills. "Angel's ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor is elite," Smesko said. "Her energy, toughness and instincts will thrive in our system, and we're excited to integrate her into the style of play we are constructing here in Atlanta." ___ AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball