Angel Reese's stellar 22-point performance helped the Atlanta Dream secure a historic berth in the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013, as they dramatically overcame the New York Liberty 85-83 on Friday night. Reflecting on the emotional moment while sitting in front of a television set watching the WNBA Finals just a year ago, Dream forward Reese shared her journey with reporters.
"I sat at home the last two years and watched it. I texted Kahleah Copper, just get me one game in the playoffs," she recalled with visible joy.
Exactly 364 days later, Reese appeared on the WNBA's biggest stage, leading the Dream all the way to the championship series. The fourth-seeded Dream successfully closed out the fiercely contested playoff series against the Liberty with a clinical three-game sweep.
The Dream will now face the formidable Golden State Valkyries, who similarly swept the Las Vegas Aces in the other semifinal matchup. The much-anticipated WNBA Finals are scheduled to kick off on October 17, 2026.
Reese, who was recently named the league's Defensive Player of the Year, joined the Atlanta franchise earlier this offseason via a high-profile trade that completely transformed the team's competitive trajectory. For historical context, this remarkable run marks the first time the Dream franchise has reached the semifinal and final stages since the memorable 2018 season.
With everything now on the line, the rejuvenated Atlanta Dream squad needs just four more wins to claim the elusive first WNBA championship in franchise history. Fans and analysts alike have praised the team's defensive resilience and offensive execution throughout the postseason, which proved decisive against a resilient Liberty side.
As preparations begin for the upcoming series against Golden State, coaching staff and players are maintaining strict focus to ensure peak physical and mental readiness. The league office has confirmed all logistical arrangements for the upcoming championship games, promising a thrilling conclusion to an exceptional professional basketball season.