The Chicago Sky have traded two-time WNBA All-Star Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 first-round pick, the team announced on Monday (date not specified in the official release). The Dream will also receive 2028 second-round swap rights as part of the deal, marking one of the most notable roster moves of the WNBA offseason.

Reese, who was selected No. 7 overall in the 2024 draft, quickly established herself as one of the league’s most productive young players. During the previous season, she led the WNBA in rebounds per game at 12.6 for the second consecutive year. She also topped the league in double-doubles with 23, while leading the Sky in scoring with 14.7 points per game and contributing 3.7 assists.

In a statement, Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca described the move as a strategic decision aimed at improving roster balance. He acknowledged Reese’s impact, noting her record-setting performances and competitive presence during her tenure in Chicago, while expressing confidence that she will continue to influence the game at a high level.

The trade follows a period of tension between Reese and the franchise. Last season, she publicly voiced concerns about the team’s point guard situation and suggested that roster improvements were necessary. The organization deemed those remarks detrimental and issued a suspension, after which Reese missed additional games due to what the team described as a back injury. She later apologized to teammates.

Chicago struggled significantly without Reese, posting a 1-13 record in her absence and finishing 10-34 overall, missing the playoffs for a second straight year. Her rookie contract runs through 2026, with a team option for 2027.

With this move, the Sky now hold five first-round picks over the next three seasons, positioning the franchise for a potential rebuild while the Dream add a proven frontcourt presence.