Angel Reese's Mixed Preseason Return to Chicago Highlights Fresh Start with Atlanta Dream

Key facts

• Angel Reese was traded from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream earlier this month.
• In her preseason debut against the Sky, Reese scored 2 field goals and missed half her free throws.
• Reese said she is 'still happy' and grateful for her time in Chicago but felt moving on was best for both sides.
• The Dream finished 30-14 last season, 20 games better than the Sky.
• Atlanta is considered among championship favorites behind the Liberty, Aces and Fever.
• The Sky received first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028 for Reese.

A Rocky Return to Wintrust Arena

Angel Reese's first preseason game against her former team, the Chicago Sky, was a mixed affair that underscored both the promise and the pitfalls of her new chapter with the Atlanta Dream. On Wednesday night at Wintrust Arena, Reese struggled mightily, hitting just two field goals and missing half her free throws in a performance that drew sharp online commentary. Viral clips of her lowlights circulated rapidly, with some observers questioning whether the footage could be AI-generated given how poorly she played. Yet even in defeat, Reese displayed a composure that had been absent during her turbulent tenure in Chicago.

A Trade That Reshaped Two Franchises

The trade that sent Reese to Atlanta earlier this month was a blockbuster move that sent shockwaves through the WNBA. The Sky received first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028 in exchange for the 2024 draftee, who had publicly criticized the organization's weaknesses late last season. Reese acknowledged the acrimony that marked her departure, saying, 'I think it was just best for me to move on, and I think it was helpful for both of us.' She added that she was grateful Chicago placed her in a trade to a team where she felt wanted.

From Adversity to a Fresh Start

Reese's relationship with the Sky had soured amid a 14-26 season that left the team near the bottom of the standings. The 22-year-old forward, known for her outspoken personality and social media presence, often found herself at the center of controversy, including incidents involving Caitlin Clark. But in Atlanta, Reese has found a franchise with a winning culture. The Dream went 30-14 last season, a 20-game improvement over the Sky, and are considered championship contenders alongside the Liberty, Aces and Fever. 'I've shown all 32 teeth every day,' Reese said, describing her happiness since the move.

A Measured Response to the Past

When asked about returning to Chicago, Reese deflected any suggestion of revenge or bitterness. 'It's just like any game,' she said. 'I'm just looking forward to another opportunity to play basketball.' Her tone was markedly different from her rookie season, when she had refused to speak with a reporter, accusing him of intending to twist her words. Reese's evolution as a professional was evident in her handling of the pregame media session. She answered every question without defensiveness, a sign of maturity that bodes well for her role as the face of the Dream.

The Stakes for Atlanta and Chicago

For the Dream, Reese represents both a marketing bonanza and a potential on-court upgrade. Her ability to generate 'content' — whether through stellar play or viral missteps — has made her one of the league's most talked-about figures. But Atlanta's championship aspirations demand consistent production, not just highlight reels. Chicago, meanwhile, is rebuilding around its future draft capital. The Sky's decision to trade Reese signals a long-term strategy, but the immediate cost is clear: they lost a player who, despite her uneven preseason debut, remains a formidable talent and a box-office draw.

What Lies Ahead for Reese and the Dream

Reese's preseason performance was a reminder that adjusting to a new team takes time. The Dream's system, which powered a 30-win season, will demand that she refine her game and reduce the kind of mistakes that went viral on Wednesday. Yet if her off-court demeanor is any guide, Reese is ready for the challenge. 'No love lost,' she said of her departure from Chicago. For a player who once seemed perpetually at odds with her environment, that statement may be the most telling sign of growth.

The bottom line

• Angel Reese's preseason debut for Atlanta was statistically poor but emotionally revealing, as she handled the return to Chicago with grace.
• The trade from the Sky to the Dream was driven by mutual dissatisfaction and has reshaped both teams' trajectories.
• Reese's happiness in Atlanta, as expressed by her '32 teeth' comment, contrasts sharply with her strained final season in Chicago.
• Atlanta's 30-14 record and championship contender status provide Reese with a winning environment she lacked with the Sky.
• The Sky's decision to trade Reese for future draft picks signals a rebuild, while the Dream aim to capitalize on her star power immediately.
• Reese's ability to translate her off-court contentment into consistent on-court performance will be critical for Atlanta's title hopes.