Angel Reese is so ATL. In a new interview, the former Chicago Sky player opened up about her blockbuster trade to the Atlanta Dream and boasted about how excited she was to be immersed in the Peach State’s culture.
Angel Reese Teases Her Atlanta Dream Debut, Says She’s ‘Excited’ To Be In The City
Speaking with PEOPLE, Reese said she was more than excited to be part of the WNBA’s Georgia-based team for the 2026 season.
“I was so excited when I finally found out,” she told the outlet. “The team has welcomed me so much, the atmosphere, the culture … I’m so excited to be in A-Town.”
Elsewhere in her interview, the LSU alum said she was “here to stay,” essentially letting her new fanbase know she was there to handle business.
Angel Reese Says She ‘Dreamed’ Of This Moment
In a separate interview with E! News, Reese implied that she manifested her sudden departure from the Chicago Sky.
“I really dreamed of this moment,” she said. “I’m living in my Barbie dream house. I’m just having so much fun. Life is good, life is great, and I’m excited for this new journey and this new city, and more to come.”
Reese was traded to the Dream on April 6, according to The Blast.
“This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties,” said Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca. “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.”
Angel Reese Hurt Some Feelings With The Hard Truth On Her Way Out Of Chicago
To the outside, Reese’s trade from Chicago may seem surprising; however, this was a long time coming.
According to a previous report from The Blast, Reese made critical comments about the Sky during her second year in the league.
“I’m not settling for the same s— we did this year,” Reese told the media amid the Sky’s disastrous 2025 season. “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.”
Reese went on to say that she’d love to stay in Chicago for the duration of her career but would move if necessary.
“… 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 said.
While sharp, Reese’s comments weren’t untrue, says the WNBA standings. The Sky were ranked 12 of 13 and finished the season with a 10-34 record.
Reese, meanwhile, led her team in every statistical category, averaging 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
Reese Gets Support After Announcing Trade
Reese’s trade announcement sparked a surge of excitement among her fans and across the WNBA.
Coco Gauff commented on the news and vowed to visit State Farm Arena to see Reese’s skills in person.
Actor Keith Powers and singer Jacquees left several flame emojis, while Olympian Suni Lee commented, “YES” followed by three heart eye emojis.
Reese’s former teammate, Kamilla Cardoso, also showed her support in the comments, writing, “Twin tower always and forever. Go be great, 5.”
Reese Is Ready For The Next Chapter
Reese is joining an already stacked Dream roster, currently featuring Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, Brittney Griner, and Brionna Jones.
The team’s general manager, Dan Padover, spoke about Reese’s addition, calling her a “dynamic talent and perfect fit” for the team.
“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 said.
Reese echoed that sentiment, saying her primary focus was on growing her game and playing with the best.
The Atlanta Dream will suit up against Reese’s former team, the Chicago Sky, for their first game of the season on April 29.