The Atlanta Dream will face the Portland Fire without star forward Angel Reese, who has been officially ruled out due to an ankle injury.
Why it matters: Reese's absence is a major blow for the Dream as they look to build momentum after snapping a five-game losing streak.
Reese suffered an ankle injury late in the Dream's 89-78 victory over the Seattle Storm on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
She exited the game limping with 1:19 remaining, raising immediate concerns about her availability.
Head coach Karl Smesko confirmed that Reese was officially ruled out for the game against the Fire on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
Driving the news: The Dream initially listed Reese as questionable following her injury but later confirmed her absence before tip-off.
Reese's injury occurred when she fell under the basket, prompting immediate worries about her health.
Her status was uncertain leading up to the game, leaving the team in a difficult position as they prepared for a talented opponent.
With the WNBA All-Star break approaching, the team must weigh whether to prioritize Reese’s recovery over immediate competition.
State of play: Reese has been a standout player for Atlanta this season, averaging a career-high 15.0 points and leading the league with 11.7 rebounds per game.
She has been instrumental in the Dream's success, earning her third consecutive All-Star selection.
Reese's physicality and rebounding ability have made her a key component of the team’s frontcourt.
Her recent transition to a larger role at center has increased her importance to the team dynamics.
The big picture: The Dream's recent victory against the Storm was a much-needed boost after a challenging stretch.
Atlanta ended a five-game losing streak with the win, highlighting the need for continued success.
Facing the Fire without Reese complicates their efforts to maintain this momentum.
The team must adapt quickly to fill the gap left by Reese’s absence.
What they're saying: Coach Smesko emphasized the need for other players to step up in Reese's absence.
“Everybody’s just gonna have to do their part. Our guards will have to get a few more rebounds,” Smesko said.
He acknowledged the challenge of losing one of the best rebounders in WNBA history, stating, “Obviously, it hurts to lose one of the best rebounders in W history.”
Smesko expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt, saying, “We expect to be a great rebounding team.”
By the numbers: Reese's statistics this season underline her impact on the court.
Averaging 15.0 points per game, Reese has achieved her highest scoring average in her career.
Her 11.7 rebounds per game lead the WNBA, demonstrating her dominance on the boards.
Reese has been a three-time All-Star, solidifying her status as one of the league's elite players.
What's next: With Reese sidelined, rookie Madina Okot is expected to take on a larger role in the frontcourt.
Okot, the 13th pick in the 2026 draft, will likely start against the Fire.
Replacing Reese's production and physicality will be a considerable challenge for the rookie.
The Dream will monitor Reese’s recovery closely as they prepare for upcoming games after facing Portland.