Full Breakdown
Angel Reese's Dream Debut in Chicago Highlights Trade Impact and Fan Warmth
5/1/2026, 3:45:44 PM
The Preseason Showdown: Dream Defeat Sky 87-78
On April 29, 2026, the Atlanta Dream opened their preseason at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena, beating the Chicago Sky 87-78. Angel Reese, back in Chicago after an April 6 trade, logged eight points, seven rebounds, two assists and three steals in 13 minutes, posting a plus-14 rating without a turnover.
Trade Background and Reese’s Chicago Legacy
Reese, the No. 7 pick of the 2024 draft, spent two seasons with the Sky, earning All-Star honors and leading the league in rebounding (14.1 pts, 12.9 reb per game). The April 6 deal sent her to Atlanta for the Sky’s 2027 and 2028 first-round picks and a 2028 second-round swap right. Some outlets called the move a “blockbuster” while others deemed the return “widely panned as too little” for a player of her caliber.
Game Flow and Key Numbers
Atlanta built a 25-17 first-quarter lead and stretched to 43-30 at halftime. Dream bench contributors Madina Okot (14 pts, 11 reb) and Te-Hina Paopao (13 pts) complemented Reese’s defense. Chicago’s Sydney Taylor led all scorers with 23 points, but the Sky’s late surge fell short. Reese’s defensive play included three steals and a notable block on former teammate Kamilla Cardoso.
Fan Reception and In-Arena Tributes
A standing-ovation greeted Reese’s entrance, and a tribute video during the first timeout drew cheers. Fans displayed signs, wore Reese jerseys, and a social-media post highlighted a photo of her “winged” shoes. After the game, Reese signed autographs for supporters, and the WNBA posted “All love for Angel Reese in Chi-Town ?” on X.
Official Statements & Responses
Reese emphasized gratitude, noting, “I’m really happy and grateful… happy to be here with Atlanta now.” Sky coach Tyler Marsh told her, “Go be great, go kill it,” and praised her fit with Atlanta. Dream head coach Karl Smesko highlighted her “huge impact,” citing her willingness to shoot, drive and generate steals, and described the night as a “seamless adjustment” for Reese.
Criticism & Past Controversy
In September 2025, Reese criticized the Sky’s front office, stating, “I’m not settling for the same s--- we did this year,” which led to a half-game suspension and strained relations. The episode, combined with a later technical-foul suspension and a back injury, contributed to a turbulent final season in Chicago.
Why the Return Matters
Reese’s arrival bolsters Atlanta’s frontcourt alongside All-Stars Rhyne Howard, Brionna Jones and Naz Hillmon, addressing a perceived missing piece after a 30-14 franchise-record season. Her defensive intensity and rebounding promise to elevate the Dream’s title aspirations while providing a compelling narrative for fans.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Just being grateful for my opportunities that I did have here my first two years, a lot of positives,” — Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream forward
- “It was honestly the first time seeing her since the trade, so I was just telling her to 'go be great, go kill it,'” — Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky coach
- “I loved my experience there. It was amazing, and seeing a lot of familiar faces on Wednesday is going to be good.” — Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream forward
- “She's with a championship-caliber team… she fits in perfectly and she'll be great.” — Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky coach
- “We want to be the best at getting better, and hopefully, through the course of the season, we make the most improvement,” — Karl Smesko, Atlanta Dream head coach
What’s Next
Atlanta’s next preseason contest is a home game against the Washington Mystics at The Gateway Center Arena, followed by the regular season start on May 8. Reese is expected to contend for a starting frontcourt role alongside Howard and Hillmon.
