Chicago Sky Trade Angel Reese to Atlanta in Blockbuster Free Agency Move

In a stunning move on the opening day of 2026 WNBA free agency, the Chicago Sky have traded All-Star forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for future draft capital.

Chicago will receive Atlanta’s 2027 and 2028 first-round picks, while the Dream also gain swap rights to the Sky’s 2028 second-round pick.

Reese, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, quickly established herself as one of the league’s rising stars. A two-time All-Star and dominant presence on the glass, she led the league in rebounding and averaged 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 steals last season.

Despite her production, Reese’s tenure in Chicago ended on rocky terms. Late in the season, she drew criticism following an interview in which she publicly challenged the organization. Though she later apologized, Reese was suspended for half a game and, combined with a league suspension for technical fouls and a back injury, missed the team’s final stretch. While she had previously expressed intentions to return, a split between the two sides ultimately became inevitable.

For Atlanta, the move signals another aggressive step toward contention.

The Dream are coming off a franchise-record 30-win season, finishing near the top of the league in offensive, defensive, and net rating. However, a first-round playoff exit exposed the need for additional star power. Reese addresses that immediately, bringing elite rebounding, defensive versatility, and continued upside despite some areas for improvement, including finishing and turnovers.

Her addition strengthens a core that already features Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Te-Hina Paopao, giving Atlanta one of the most dynamic young groups in the league. With the No. 13 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft also in hand, the Dream are well-positioned to keep building.

Atlanta’s frontcourt remains a key question heading into free agency, particularly with Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner both hitting the market. Regardless of how those decisions unfold, the Dream have made it clear—they’re all-in on taking the next step from regular-season success to legitimate championship contention.