The Atlanta Dream defeated the Minnesota Lynx 91-90 on Saturday at the Target Center in Minneapolis, overcoming a 19-point deficit.
Angel Reese recorded 11 points and 14 rebounds in her debut for Atlanta, including a block on Emese Hof's layup attempt as time expired to secure the win.
Game Summary
Atlanta trailed 52-33 with one minute remaining in the first half. A three-pointer by Naz Hillmon and a free throw by Reese cut the deficit before halftime.
The Dream outscored the Lynx 20-6 in the third quarter, with Allisha Gray contributing 12 points in the period, reducing the gap to 58-57. Minnesota later rebuilt an eight-point lead entering the fourth quarter.
The Lynx led 73-63 at the start of the fourth quarter. Atlanta cut the lead to three points on multiple occasions. Hillmon tied the game at 85-85 with a three-pointer with under three minutes remaining. Te-Hina Paopao scored a midrange jumper to give Atlanta the lead with 22.5 seconds left.
Statistical Leaders
- Allisha Gray: 24 points, eight rebounds
- Naz Hillmon: 15 points
- Rhyne Howard: 15 points
- Olivia Miles: 21 points, eight assists, two steals, two blocks (WNBA debut)
- Kayla McBride (Minnesota): 18 points
- Courtney Williams (Minnesota): 14 points, six rebounds, five assists, three steals
Reese's Historical Context
Reese achieved double figures in points and rebounds in 46 games during her first two WNBA seasons, surpassing Tina Charles's previous record of 45 double-doubles. Her 23 double-doubles in 2024 broke Charles's rookie record. Reese also set a record for most rebounds in a single season during her rookie year with the Chicago Sky, including 15 consecutive double-doubles and three consecutive games with 20 rebounds.
Trade Details
On Monday, the Atlanta Dream acquired Reese from the Chicago Sky. The trade terms:
- Atlanta sends: 2027 first-round pick, 2028 first-round pick
- Chicago sends: Angel Reese
- Additional: Right to swap second-round picks in 2028
Dream general manager Dan Padover stated that Reese is a dynamic talent and a suitable fit for the team's development. Reese expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating she intends to focus on game growth, high-level competition, fan engagement, and dedication to the team. Dream coach Karl Smesko commented on Reese's ability to affect the game on both ends of the court.
Chicago general manager Jeff Pagliocca acknowledged Reese's record-breaking achievements and competitive presence for the Sky, wishing her well in her future endeavors.
Player Profile
Reese was selected seventh overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Sky. She was named to the All-Rookie team in her first season and has led the league in rebounding for two consecutive years. Before her professional career, Reese led LSU to a national championship in 2023.
In 64 career games, Reese averages 14.1 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. She is entering the final guaranteed year of her rookie contract, with the Dream holding a team option for the 2027 season.
Team Context
During Reese's tenure with Chicago, the Sky missed the playoffs in both seasons. In September, Reese stated she was "not settling for the same" and might seek a different path if the team's performance did not improve. The Atlanta Dream has reached the playoffs in the last three seasons but has not advanced beyond the first round since 2018. In 2025, Atlanta finished first in the Eastern Conference but lost to the Indiana Fever in the playoffs.
Upcoming Games
- Atlanta Dream: at Dallas Wings on Tuesday
- Minnesota Lynx: at Phoenix Mercury on Tuesday