Angel Reese was named the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year following an outstanding first season with the Atlanta Dream. After leading the league in rebounding, Reese made headlines Thursday by receiving 46 of the 74 votes from a national panel of writers and broadcasters, marking the first time a Dream player has won this honor.
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Reese's recognition comes just a day after she contributed to the Dream's playoff advancement by sweeping the Washington Mystics in the first round. This season, she has already been recognized as the AP Defensive Player of the Year.
In her first season with the Dream, Reese has quickly made a significant impact, helping the team secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference standings. During the playoff series against the Mystics, she averaged 15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 steals, showcasing her defensive prowess.
The 24-year-old forward/center outperformed competition from seasoned players, including two-time All-Star Gabby Williams and four-time MVP A'ja Wilson, to clinch the award.
As Reese celebrated her achievement with her mother during the presentation, she emphasized the collaborative effort of her teammates, acknowledging their contributions to her success. This accolade comes as a significant milestone in Reese's burgeoning career, solidifying her position as one of the league's top defensive talents.