Angel Reese Extends Her Gratitude On Her Return To Chicago

The Chicago Sky and Angel Reese had been a great story. Coming to the WNBA, the 23-year-old star was picked up by Chicago. Playing for two seasons, the duo had made some significant headlines. Sadly, just like any other great story, this one too had run its course. Ahead of the 2026 WNBA season, the Chi-town Barbie joined the Atlanta Dream in a blockbuster trade. 

Soon, speculation began to surface about how exactly the new journey would pan out. Up until now, things have been looking pretty fantastic. Immediately after joining, Reese’s presence caused the Atlanta Dream’s ticket prices to soar. And as the WNBA preseason saw the Dream take on the Sky in Chicago, the 23-year-old had a lot to say about her former team.

What did Angel Reese say about the Chicago Sky?

It was an emotional moment for the Bayou Barbie. Following her exit from the Sky, this was the first time the 2-time WNBA All-Star returned to Chicago. Taking on her former franchise in a preseason game, the 23-year-old had a fun outing. As Atlanta won 87-78, Reese couldn’t have hoped for a more perfect start than this. However, while she celebrated her victory, the 6-foot-3 star did not forget to speak about the Chicago Sky.

“I’m happy. I’m grateful for my time in Chicago, I experienced a lot of great things. I’m just excited to start this new journey,” said Reese after the game.  

“I’m happy. I’m grateful for my time in Chicago, I experienced a lot of great things. I’m just excited to start this new journey.” Angel Reese on her return to Chicago to face the Sky tonight three weeks after her trade to Atlanta. #SkyTown #ChicagoSky pic.twitter.com/79Y3wevP8k

— Josh Frydman (@Josh_Frydman) April 29, 2026

Now, coming to the game details, the Dream was all over the Sky. Playing a fantastic hand, Madina Okot top-scored with 14 points. Suiting up for her new team, Reese played for 13 minutes and dropped eight points, two assists, and seven rebounds. Additionally, Te-Hina Paopao and Isobel Borlase, too, provided some strong support by chipping in with 13 points each. 

---

Meanwhile, looking at Reese’s day 1 performance, head coach Karl Smesko was all smiles. 

Atlanta Dream Head Coach Details How Much Of An Impact Angel Reese Had On The Game

Since joining the new team, there has been a lot of speculation regarding how exactly the Bayou Barbie would fit into the Dream’s side. But after their preseason game against the Sky, things are looking quite impressive. Following the game, Karl Smesko was asked about the 23-year-old’s impact on the game.

Sounding quite satisfied with what he saw, the Dream head coach said, “Angel just had a huge impact. She was willing to shoot the three, she drove, she got offensive rebounds. I mean, she was, I don’t know how many steals she got, but she had several steals and three.”

Dream coach Karl Smesko talks a bit about scheme and the variety of ways they’re working Angel Reese into it all with not a ton of time before the season begins. pic.twitter.com/n1KyKoHopE

— Kareem Copeland (@kareemcopeland) April 30, 2026

Thus, with things looking upbeat, fans cannot wait to see more of Angel Reese in her new colors.