Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Angel Reese adopts CJ McCollum's nickname ahead of WNBA Finals

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 17, 2026, 6:42 AM

Last updated Oct 17, 2026

Angel Reese adopts CJ McCollum's nickname ahead of WNBA Finals

Summary

Angel Reese, of the Atlanta Dream, embraced the nickname 'queen of the South' given by Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum. The acknowledgment came during a media session ahead of the WNBA Finals. McCollum commended Reese's contributions to the Dream, where she has played a crucial role during the playoffs. Reese is recognized for her impressive defensive skills, recently named the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. Dream coach Karl Smesko discussed working closely with Reese on refining her shooting, highlighting her significant improvement this season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Reese praised by McCollum for her impact on the Dream
•McCollum's nickname reflects Reese's influence in Atlanta
•Reese is the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year
•Dream going into WNBA Finals with a perfect playoff record
•Smesko notes Reese's significant shooting improvement this season

Latest Updates

6:42 AMYahoo Sports — “That’s my new nickname” – Angel Reese Embraces CJ McCollum’s Moniker While Praising Hawks Guard’s Support

What they're saying

"
A couple of days before the WNBA Finals, Atlanta Hawks guard CJ McCollum praised Angel Reese for her impact on the Dream. McCollum even called Reese “the queen of the South.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Atlanta Hawks Atlanta Dream Chicago Sky New York Liberty Basketball