Chicago Parts Ways With Angel Reese On First Day Of WNBA Free Agency

Angel Reese is now a Georgia peach! The former Chicago Sky star was traded to the Atlanta Dream on Monday, April 6, 2026, after two seasons in the windy city.

Chicago Trades Angel Reese To The Atlanta Dream During First Day Of WNBA Free Agency

The news of Reese’s switch to the Atlanta Dream came just before noon on April 6. ESPN confirmed the deal, revealing that the Sky received two first-round picks.

Reese concluded her sophomore season leading the league in rebounds and averaging 12.6 points per game. Reese also led the league in double-doubles, recording 23.

“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,” Pagliocca added.

Angel Reese Hurt Feelings At The End Of Her Second Season In The WNBA

Reese’s trade is not a surprise, given that the LSU alum hurt Sky ownership’s feelings in the summer of 2025 when she voiced concerns about the organization’s future.

“I’m not settling for the same s— we did this year,” Reese told the media, according to The Blast. “We have to get good players. We have to get great players. That’s a nonnegotiable for me. I’m willing and wanting to play with the best.”

“… 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,” she continued.

Reese was punished by the Sky for making comments they deemed “detrimental” to the team, prompting fans and WNBA leadership to voice their concerns.

“She needs to get the h-ll out of there,” a league executive said. “Chicago is probably the worst-run organization in the league. You’re gonna suspend your best player just because she’s putting pressure on you to get better? That was embarrassing to see.”

Angel Reese Breaks Her Silence On Joining The Atlanta Dream In Blockbuster Trade

Reese broke her silence on her trade to Atlanta, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to play for the esteemed organization.

“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,” she said.

Reese will join forces with WNBA champion Allisha Gray and WNBA Rookie of the Year Rhyne Howard, and finished last season with the league’s third-best record (30-14).

Dream general manager Dan Padover called Reese a “dynamic talent and a perfect fit” for 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,” he added.

Reese Shares Emotional Message Following Trade

While the move to the Dream is a better fit for Reese, her departure from Chicago is bittersweet.

Reese shared a video highlighting her first two seasons, accompanied by an emotional message. “To the city of Chicago: You showed me real love from day one,” she said. “Thank you, Chicago. [I’m] always Chi-Town Barbie.”

What Else Has Reese Been Up To?

Weeks ago, Reese made her Team USA debut with fellow WNBA sensations Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers.

The 23-year-old played in the FIBA World Cup Qualifying Tournament in preparation for the Women’s World Cup in Berlin, Germany, in September 2026.

“… being able to know this is a lifelong dream for me,” she said, according to The Blast.

“Just steps to 2028,” Reese said about her spot on the roster. “I mean, that’s a big goal for me. So just continuing to take these small steps and continue to learn and grow.”