WNBA Finals: Angel Reese Praises Atlanta Dreams After 68-63 Loss

Angel Reese told reporters following the Atlanta Dreams' 68-63 defeat to the Golden State Valkyries that the championship is "delayed, not denied." The loss ended the Dreams' run in the WNBA Finals, marking the end of a season that included the league's first ever Game 7.

Reese, who is in her third year in the WNBA, emphasized the work ethic of her teammates. She stated that the group changed her life and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete with them. Reese noted that it is only her third year in the league, implying that her career is still in its early stages.

The guard credited head coach Karl Smesko for the team's development. Reese said that individual improvements in the offseason lead to collective success, and she acknowledged the effort Smesko puts into the system. She expressed interest in returning to work with Smesko and his staff next year.

Reese had a record-setting year before the Finals. She broke double-double records in both the regular season and the playoffs. She also earned her first Defensive Player of the Year Award. Her performance helped establish the Dreams as a competitive force in the Eastern Conference.

The series drew high viewership, reflecting growing interest in the WNBA. The Dreams moved their home games from the 7,000-seat Gateway Center Arena to the State Farm Arena, which seats 16,000. The move was necessary to accommodate the large crowds that attended the team's games. High-profile celebrities, including Usher, Monica, and TI, attended the games to support the team.

The WNBA season will resume next spring, though an official start date has not yet been announced. The next major league event is the draft, scheduled for April 12. The Dreams will look to build on their momentum from this season as they prepare for the next roster changes.