Atlanta Dream promote Angel Reese for WNBA defensive player of the year
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 6:06 AM
Last updated Sep 13, 2026

The Atlanta Dream have launched an campaign to highlight forward Angel Reese as a contender for the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year award. Throughout her first season with the franchise, Reese has averaged 16.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game while helping the team secure a playoff spot with a 26-14 record. The team points to her league-leading rebound totals and high ranking in defensive rating as primary indicators of her impact. Despite this promotion, league observers currently view A’ja Wilson and Gabby Williams as the frontrunners for the defensive honors. While Reese is recognized for her switchability and defensive activity, critics note her limited rim protection compared to elite defensive specialists. The organization remains focused on securing recognition for her contributions to their defensive success.
- •Angel Reese is averaging 12.4 rebounds and 1.8 steals per game this season.
- •The Atlanta Dream finished the regular season with a 26-14 record.
- •Reese leads the WNBA in total rebounds and rebounds per game.
- •A’ja Wilson is the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.
- •Analysts consider Rhyne Howard a more likely candidate for defensive honors than Reese.
- 6:06 AMYahoo Sports — Atlanta Dream make the case for Angel Reese as WNBA DPOY amid career-best season
"Angel Reese’s first season with the Atlanta Dream has led to her emergence as one of the elite two-way forwards in the WNBA. Reese is averaging 16.
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