Chicago Sky trade Angel Reese to Atlanta Dream for two first-round picks
The Chicago Sky have traded two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for two future first-round draft picks.
The blockbuster transaction sees the Dream send their 2027 and 2028 first-round selections, alongside a 2028 second-round pick swap, to secure the services of the dominant forward.
This high-profile departure follows a strained sophomore season where the highly touted prospect publicly criticised Chicago’s roster construction before eventually issuing an apology to her teammates.
Statistical dominance and franchise impact
Despite the off-court friction, the former seventh overall draft pick delivered exceptional performances on the hardwood.
She led the WNBA in rebounds with 12.6 per game for the second consecutive year and recorded a league-high 23 double-doubles.
The prolific interior player also paced her former team in both scoring and assists, averaging 14.7 points and 3.7 assists respectively during a difficult campaign.
Her absence was heavily felt down the stretch, as Chicago managed just one victory in 14 games without their talisman and finished with a dismal 10-34 overall record.
Looking towards the future
The trade signals a significant rebuilding phase for Chicago, who have now missed the postseason for two consecutive years.
General manager Jeff Pagliocca framed the decision as a necessary step to achieve better structural equilibrium across the squad.
This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties,
Pagliocca noted in an official club statement.
Angel has achieved many record-breaking milestones in her first two years in the WNBA and has been a competitive force for the Sky.
Armed with five first-round selections over the next three seasons, the Illinois franchise possesses substantial draft capital to reshape their struggling roster.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Dream inherit a generational talent whose rookie contract runs through the 2026 season, with a team option available for 2027.
