Angel Reese is getting a new chapter to her WNBA career.
Reese was traded on Monday morning from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream.
The Sky will get first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 with the Dream getting a second-round pick swap in 2028, along with Reese.
Reese, 23, has averaged 14 points and 13 rebounds per game in her first two WNBA seasons.
Reese threatened to go in a “different direction” and took digs at her teammates in September with Chicago near the end of a 10-34 last season.
“I am very vocal about what we need and what I want,” Reese told the Chicago Tribune. “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.”
Reese said the team also has to get “good” and “great players” and that it was “non-negotiable.” Reese tried walking back the statements but the team still suspended her for a game.
Reese seemingly got her wish with with Monday’s trade as the team moved on following two frustrating seasons for the franchise after taking Reese with the No. 7 pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
“This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties,” Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a statement.
“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, who is dating Magic center Wendell Carter, has a flourishing career outside the WNBA. She also plays in Unrivaled, has her own podcast and has had success as a model.
Reese first came to prominence when winning the national championship with LSU in 2023. She has been portrayed as Caitlin Clark’s rival since the Tigers defeated Iowa in that national title game.
That has continued into the WNBA with the Sky and Clark’s Fever having contentious moments during their matchups. The feud did simmer last season with Clark missing most of the campaign due to injuries.
The Dream went 30-14 last season before losing in the first round of the WNBA playoffs to the Fever.
“I’m beyond grateful for the opportunity to join the Atlanta Dream organization,” Reese said in the Dream’s statement. “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.”
