Atlanta Dream announce historic news after Angel Reese’s DPOY win

Angel Reese has been sensational for the Atlanta Dream this season. She has showcased her elite skill set, particularly on the rebounding on the defensive end, and have altered shots with her presence inside the paint. It has led to the three-time All-Star earning AP Defensive Player of the Year honors. However, she is not the only player of the team that has shined, as Rhyne Howard is also amid a strong campaign. The Dream announced historic news on Sunday on social media.

Reese averaged 16.4 points, 12.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists and a career-high 1.8 steals through 43 regular-season games. She has adjusted well to a new system and teammates after landing in Atlanta in April via a trade from the Chicago Sky.

Meanwhile, Howard produced 17.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.3 steals. She earned her fourth All-Star nod this year and also played for Team USA at the FIBA World Cup in Berlin.

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese (5) in the second half against the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard make Atlanta Dream history

Atlanta posted a graphic of Reese and Howard on X. It included their achievement of being named as members of the AP Second Team. They became the first teammates in franchise history to achieve it in the same year.

“Press Release: ANGEL REESE NAMED AP DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR; REESE AND RHYNE HOWARD EARN ALL-AP HONORS,” the Dream wrote. “Reese becomes first player in franchise history to earn AP Defensive Player of the Year. Reese and Howard become first Dream teammates named to an AP All Team in the same season.”

Press Release: ANGEL REESE NAMED AP DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR; REESE AND RHYNE HOWARD EARN ALL-AP HONORS
Reese becomes first player in franchise history to earn AP Defensive Player of the Year; Reese and Howard become first Dream teammates named to an AP All Team in the same… pic.twitter.com/PM8i9aDWY7

— Atlanta Dream PR (@ATLDreamPR) September 27, 2026

Atlanta will continue to rely on the dynamic duo in the WNBA playoffs. The team secured the No. 4 seed and will have homecourt advantage in the first round against the Washington Mystics. Games 1 and 3 will be played at State Farm Arena, giving Reese, Howard and Co. a strong chance to advance.