Angel Reese makes bold statement before WNBA playoffs

Angel Reese and the Atlanta Dream wrapped up their regular-season schedule with five consecutive wins. They defeated the New York Liberty for the second straight game on Wednesday to finish 30-14 and fourth in the standings. She also delivered a bold statement during an interview the following day.

Reese recorded six points, six rebounds, three assists and three steals in 17 minutes. She exited the game in the second quarter after she was hit in the face by Sabrina Ionescu’s elbow and did not return. However, the Dream continued to dominate in the second half to secure and 83-65 victory.

Allisha Gray led the way with 24 points, four rebounds and five assists. Naz Hillmon produced 16 points and four rebounds, while Jordin Canada added 12 points and five rebounds.

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese (5) reacts to a foul in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Aces.

Angel Reese has strong words entering the WNBA playoffs

Reese appeared on “NBA Today” and Malika Andrews interviewed her. She walked the host through one of her highlights this season, blocking Connecticut Sun center Brittney Griner. The three-time All-Star also stressed that an Atlanta player should receive the Defensive Player of the Year award.

“So I was on help side helping out my rook, Madina (Okot),” Reese said. “BG is 6’9” (and) she’s one of the best blockers in the league. Being able to get not one, but two, and also being able to grab the ball and take it from her and get the steal and add another possession for us, it was good. Those are energy players that I love. That’s something that I like to bring every single night for my team. My team allows me to be aggressive. Our team is really good defensively.

“We have three players that are in the top of the steals, Rhyne (Howard), me and Jordan Canada. That has never been done in WNBA history. When I said the Defensive Player of the Year is in Atlanta, I meant what I said.”

“When I said the Defensive Player of the Year is in Atlanta, I meant what I said.”

—@Reese10Angel on the Defensive Player of the Year race pic.twitter.com/lElNPX0c3w

— espnW (@espnW) September 24, 2026

The Dream have assured themselves of homecourt advantage in the first round. They have their sights set on going all the way after getting eliminated in the first round last year. Atlanta boasts an elite defensive team, which will be further solidified if one of its players wins the DPOY.