WNBA1 hour ago2 minute read

Angel Reese Shines as Atlanta Dream Take Control of Semifinals

Angel Reese scored 23 points to lead the Atlanta Dream to a 2-0 series lead over the New York Liberty in the WNBA semifinals.

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Reese Delivers in Overtime Victory

Angel Reese is playing in only her fourth WNBA playoff game, but she is already playing like a seasoned veteran. The young forward helped the Atlanta Dream secure a 2-0 lead in their best of five semifinal series against the New York Liberty.

During Wednesday's Game 2, Reese made a smart play with just over six seconds left in overtime. With the Dream holding a one point lead, she instructed teammate DeWanna Bonner to inbound the ball in the backcourt to run off clock. Reese ran 1.8 seconds off the clock, drew a foul, and made two free throws to seal the win.

Reese scored a playoff career high 23 points in the game, including six points in overtime. She also recorded seven rebounds and two blocks. The win marks Atlanta's ninth consecutive victory. The number four seed Dream are now just one win away from their first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013.

A Defensive Force in Atlanta

Reese has fit in perfectly since the Chicago Sky traded her to Atlanta in April. The former number seven pick in the 2024 draft has joined a talented roster that includes Rhyne Howard and Naz Hillmon.

During the regular season, Reese led the league in rebounding with 12.1 rebounds per game and won the Defensive Player of the Year award. Her impact has only grown in the postseason. In the playoffs, she is averaging 17.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game.

Her defensive presence has been particularly impressive. Opponents are shooting just 37 percent when guarded by Reese in the playoffs, and that number drops to 31.2 percent in the semifinals. Atlanta coach Karl Smesko praised her energy, calling her an emotional leader for the team.

What it means for the next game

Atlanta Dream at New York Liberty (WNBA, Fri, 09 Oct): New York Liberty win 53%, Atlanta Dream win 47%; projected score New York Liberty 86, Atlanta Dream 85. Our safest pick: Dream +9.5.

Atlanta Dream at New York Liberty (WNBA, Sun, 11 Oct): New York Liberty win 32%, Atlanta Dream win 68%; projected score New York Liberty 81, Atlanta Dream 85. Our safest pick: Dream +2.5.