Angel Reese Wins Coveted WNBA Award in First Season With Atlanta Dream
Angel Reese broke multiple defensive records during her first season with the Dream.
The 2026 WNBA season saw Angel Reese, a 24-year-old, crowned the Defensive Player of the Year by the league, marking her first major award in a career spanning three seasons with the Atlanta Dream. Reese's impact on the court was undeniable, as she led the league in rebounds with an average of 12.1 per game during her first season with the Dream.
Her contributions were not limited to rebounds alone; she also contributed 6.4 points, 2.8 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, ranking third in the league in steals. Reese's performance was exceptional, making her the first player in the WNBA's history to record over 500 rebounds in a single season, with 521 rebounds and a league-record 26 rebounds in a single game.
Her achievements led her to a heartwarming surprise when her mother, Angel Webb Reese, revealed her win to her in a bouquet of flowers after an Atlanta Dream victory. Reese, visibly emotional, expressed her gratitude and dedication to her team and city. The Atlanta Dream advanced to the WNBA semifinals, playing against the New York Liberty, where Reese's postseason debut will take place on Sunday.
Her journey with the Dream has been remarkable, making history multiple times and setting a precedent for future players.
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