Angel Reese is vying for her first professional championship as she leads the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Finals against the Golden State Valkyries. Reese, a three-time All-Star, has silenced critics with her performance this season. The series begins Saturday in California and marks the Dream’s first title pursuit.
Selected seventh in the 2024 draft by the Chicago Sky, Reese is the first player from that class to reach the finals as a starter. This season, she earned the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Reflecting on her journey, Reese said, “I think it was important for me to go through what I went through… Being able to build character, going through adversity.”
Injuries shortened her first two seasons; she had wrist surgery after her rookie year and a back problem last year. Despite leading the league in rebounding each season with a double-double average, critics questioned her scoring prowess, dubbing her efforts “mebounds” online. Reese embraced this, turning it into a business initiative to counter cyberbullying through her foundation.
“Her tenacity has always set her apart,” remarked NBC analyst Cheryl Miller, highlighting Reese’s drive to surpass expectations.
This season, Reese aims to follow in the footsteps of WNBA icons Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson, who also reached the finals in their third season. Her resolve has already matched theirs.
Reese’s Impact in Atlanta
Reese’s addition to the Dream was pivotal for reaching the finals. Atlanta’s general manager, Dan Padover, identified Reese as the missing piece after losing to Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever last year. Reese brought renewed hope, leading her team past Washington and New York to the final series.
“Coming to Atlanta, the goal was to get them past the first round,” Reese said. She emphasized that her team studied tapes from last season’s playoffs to prepare better.
Reese’s presence has raised expectations, though she admits she didn’t foresee reaching the finals this year. Nonetheless, her experience with the Dream has been fulfilling, thanks to strong organizational support.
Golden State coach Natalie Nakase praised Reese for her competitive edge, noting, “She’s an ultimate, ultra competitor… she constantly uplifts her teammates.” Reese’s fierce determination has driven her team to the finals, ensuring no possessions are wasted.
A Proven Champion
Winning is not new for Reese. She was instrumental in LSU’s NCAA victory during her junior year, a game watched by over 18 million viewers. Reese also contributed to the U.S. national team’s recent World Cup success.
Reese equates past championships to do-or-die situations: “Every game I’m treating it like it’s win or go home.” She follows coach Karl Smesko’s mantra of valuing each play, whether it’s a rebound or a shot.
Report contributions by AP Sports Writer Janie McCauley and freelancer Alan Cole in Atlanta.
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