Angel Reese Leads Atlanta Dream to WNBA Finals with New Nickname

Angel Reese has been instrumental in the Atlanta Dream's success, leading them to the 2026 WNBA Finals after a strong postseason performance. The Dream has swept through the playoffs, winning all five games, and Reese is averaging 18.0 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. She recently scored a team-high 22 points in the semifinal victory over the New York Liberty.

As the finals approach, Reese has received a new nickname, the "Queen of the South," from former NBA player CJ McCollum, who noted the impact she has had on the team since joining. Reese acknowledged McCollum's recognition, attributing the nickname to her roots in Louisiana, where she rose to prominence at LSU. "Shoutout to CJ McCollum. I guess he’s saying that because I played at LSU. I appreciate the name. I guess that’s my new nickname – Queen of the South," she said.

This nickname adds to her previous titles, including "Bayou Barbie," which originated during her time at LSU when she helped the team win a national championship in 2023, and "Chi Barbie," received after being drafted by the Chicago Sky in 2024.

As the Dream prepare for their finals matchup against the Golden State Valkyries, they face a formidable opponent. The Valkyries, in only their second season, made history by reaching the Finals. Under coach Natalie Nakase, they have progressed significantly since becoming the first expansion franchise to make the playoffs in their inaugural year. Gabby Williams leads Golden State, averaging 14.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.6 steals.

The Finals could hinge on defensive strategies, with both teams featuring six of the WNBA's ten All-Defensive selections. Atlanta is currently monitoring the status of their leading scorer, Allisha Gray, who recently underwent a minor procedure on her injured shooting hand. Game 1 is set to tip off on Saturday, October 17, at 15:30 ET/12:30 PT at Chase Center in San Francisco.