Superstar Angel Reese turned a lot of heads this week when she emphatically declared that her Atlanta Dream was the top team in the WNBA just five games into the season. It certainly did not take long for her to be proven wrong.
With a 4-1 record, the Dream technically had the top winning percentage in the WNBA this week heading into their game with the Minnesota Lynx on Wednesday night. However, it’s worth noting that they had also played the fewest games of any team in the league. But that didn’t stop Reese from talking it up, anyway.
Reese addressed the crowd at this year’s Birthday Bash ATL, an annual hip hop festival in the city. During her speech, she brought up the fact that the Dream were the “number one team” in the WNBA at the moment.
“Well, this is my first Birthday Bash, and I’m really excited,” Reese said earlier this week. “On behalf of my teammates, we appreciate the support that y’all show us in the city, and we the number one team right now in the W.”
Unfortunately for Reese, she was proven wrong immediately, the very next game.
On Wednesday night, the Dream took on the Minnesota Lynx, where they put their league-best record to the test. It’s safe to say that they did not pass the test.
The Dream was beaten decisively on Wednesday night with the Lynx coming out on top by a final score of 96-81. Atlanta did not lead at any point in the game. At one point, the Lynx amassed a 19-point lead.
As for Reese, she had a relatively strong individual performance, scoring 10 points while leading the team with eight rebounds and five assists. However, both the scoring and rebound totals were well below her career averages in those categories.
Reese also struggled mightily on the defensive end, where she usually thrives. Minnesota post player Natasha Howard put up 22 points, going 11-for-16 from the field while being primarily guarded by Reese.
With the loss, Atlanta no longer has the top record in the WNBA. That is now the Lynx, who have a 5-2 record, including a win over the previous “number one team” in the league.
About Dave Kelsey
Contributing author to The Comeback.