Angel Reese of the Atlanta Dream has been awarded the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year after a standout season. This marks a historic achievement as she becomes the first player in Dream history to receive this honor. Reese secured 46 of the 74 votes from a panel of writers and broadcasters.
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In her first season with the Dream, Reese has demonstrated remarkable skills, leading the league in rebounding and helping her team secure the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Just a day before this accolade, she played a crucial role in the Dream's victory over the Washington Mystics, sweeping the series and advancing to the WNBA semifinals.
During a heartfelt moment, Reese received her award from her mother, expressing her joy with tears of happiness. Earlier in the season, she had predicted her success, showcasing her confidence in her defensive abilities.
Reese has also been recognized as the AP Defensive Player of the Year, further solidifying her position as a leading player in the league. Her performance has excited fans and analysts alike, with many applauding her contributions to the Dream's success this season.