The first day of WNBA free agency opened with a blockbuster trade.

The Chicago Sky agreed to send two-time All-Star Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream on Monday in exchange for first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028 in a stunning deal.

The Sky and Dream are also swapping second-round picks in 2028.

Reese, 23, was selected seventh overall by Chicago in the 2024 draft and was named an All-Star in each of her first two seasons in the WNBA while leading the league in rebounding each year.

She was the runner-up for rookie of the year in 2024 with averages of 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds and averaged 14.7 points and 12.6 boards last season and now joins an Atlanta team that set a franchise record with 30 wins in 2025.

Bayou Barbie ATL
Welcome to the , Angel pic.twitter.com/egHdbK9oaK

— Atlanta Dream (@AtlantaDream) April 6, 2026

"Angel is a dynamic talent and a perfect fit for what we are building in Atlanta," general manager Dan Padover said in a statement released by the Dream. "She has already proven herself as one of the most impactful players in the league, and her competitiveness, production and drive to win align seamlessly with our vision. This is an exciting moment for our organisation and our fans."

Despite Reese's personal success, the Sky missed the play-offs each of the last two seasons. They went 10-34 in 2025, tying the Dallas Wings for the worst record in the league.

Late last season with Chicago scuffling, Reese gave an interview in which she criticised the front office, coaching staff and even her teammates.

The Sky suspended her for one half of a game for her harsh comments.

After the season, she told reporters she intended to return to Chicago, but the organisation evidently wanted to head in a different direction.

"This trade is designed to achieve roster balance and represents a great opportunity for all parties," Chicago general manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a statement released by the Sky.

"Angel has achieved many record-breaking milestones in her first two years in the WNBA and has been a competitive force for the Sky. We are thankful for her many important contributions to this league and this game, and we know she will continue to have a big impact on the court and beyond. We wish Angel all the best in her next chapter."