Angel Reese’s Transition to Atlanta Dream: Analyzing Her Early Games

Angel Reese started her professional basketball career with the Chicago Sky and was traded in an unexpected offseason move to the Atlanta Dream. Her first games with Atlanta have shown varied performances.

In her debut against the Minnesota Lynx, she scored 11 points on 4-of-11 shooting. Her rebound count was impressive, reaching 14, along with three blocks. However, she also recorded five turnovers and five personal fouls, a common theme in her WNBA journey.

Her performance improved slightly in the next game, shooting 4-of-8 and securing 16 rebounds during a 77-72 victory over the Dallas Wings. Her home debut at the State Farm Arena saw a sellout crowd eager to watch her play.

Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream celebrates a three-point shot against the Dallas Wings at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. (Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

Her anticipated arrival brought excitement. Reese made a fashion statement by appearing in a leather outfit, which some media likened to “Catwoman energy.” When asked about facing A’ja Wilson, she confidently stated, “She’s obviously a great player…but I know I’m a great player too.”

Despite the build-up, her game highlight was limited. She managed only one of eight field-goal attempts and missed her sole three-point shot. Like her turnovers, her rebounds were eight in number. Her performance included six missed layups and eight turnovers. Her court presence resulted in a -13 rating, which reflects the point difference with her on the floor for the Las Vegas Aces and the Dream.

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese leaves the game during the first quarter against the Las Vegas Aces at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Ga. (Brett Davis/Imagn Images)

Atlanta’s coach Karl Smesko benched Reese as the Dream trailed significantly, allowing them to launch a comeback that ended in an 85-84 defeat to the Aces.

In total, during her first three games for Atlanta, Reese has shot 9-27, 0-2 from three-point range, and amassed 16 turnovers and 11 fouls. Her cumulative +/- rating stands at -15. Nevertheless, she has collected 38 rebounds and five blocks and maintained efficiency from the free throw line, converting 14 of 18 attempts.

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese departs a second-quarter game against the Las Vegas Aces at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Ga. (Brett Davis/Imagn Images)

The Dream will continue their home stretch, welcoming the Dallas Wings for another showdown at Gateway Center Arena.

Ian Miller contributes to OutKick’s sports coverage.