Angel Reese Shakes Off Slow Start to Fuel Dream’s Halftime Surge
Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese didn’t mince words when assessing her own performance in the first half against the Indiana Fever on Sunday night. Despite the Dream holding a slim four-point lead at the break, Reese acknowledged a sluggish start, admitting she was “playing like s—” before a crucial late surge helped her team build momentum.
Reese’s Candid Halftime Assessment
The early stages of the game saw Reese struggle offensively, missing all six of her initial field goal attempts and several close-range shots. However, she was instrumental in orchestrating a pivotal 17-4 run that propelled the Dream into halftime with a lead. During a candid halftime interview with ESPN’s Holly Rowe, Reese reflected on her difficult start.
“I was playing like s— in the beginning, but it’s a game of runs,” Reese stated. “You’ve got to put that in your back pocket just because you know you have teammates that have your back. [Allisha Gray], Madina [Okot], [Rhyne Howard] – they’re carrying us right now.”
Teammates Step Up Amidst Reese’s Struggles
Allisha Gray, in particular, continued her strong play against the Fever, who feature star Caitlin Clark. Gray was the Dream’s leading scorer heading into the third quarter, ultimately finishing with 21 points. Madina Okot also provided a significant boost off the bench, contributing six points, six rebounds, a steal, and a block. The team’s collective effort was evident, with Reese highlighting the importance of “just playing together, playing collectively and let our defense speak for itself.”
Finding a Rhythm in the Second Half
By halftime, Reese had accumulated seven points on 3-of-10 shooting from the field, alongside nine rebounds. When Rowe inquired about the adjustment that allowed Reese to find her rhythm after her initial struggles, the star forward pointed to a change in mindset.
“Taking my time. Woosah. And just trusting my work,” Reese explained. This mental recalibration proved effective, as she began to assert herself more confidently in the second half.
Dream and Fever Battle for Eastern Conference Supremacy
The matchup between the Atlanta Dream and the Indiana Fever was more than just a regular-season game; it was a critical contest for positioning at the top of the Eastern Conference. Both teams entered the game vying for first place, making the outcome significant for the ongoing standings. The Dream, with a strong 21-12 record coming into this game, have relied heavily on Reese’s consistent performance throughout the 2026 season.
Angel Reese’s Season So Far
Reese, a three-time All-Star in her third WNBA season, has been a cornerstone for the Dream. Prior to Sunday’s game, she was averaging a career-best 15.6 points and 12.0 rebounds per game over 32 contests. Her ability to contribute across the board, both offensively and on the glass, makes her an indispensable player for Atlanta.
The game’s intensity reflected the high stakes, with both teams demonstrating why they are contenders in the East. The Dream’s ability to overcome an early offensive lull, particularly from their star player, showcased the team’s depth and resilience. Reese’s self-awareness and her teammates’ ability to step up were key factors in the Dream’s ability to build and maintain their lead.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, games like these highlight the mental fortitude required at the professional level. Reese’s admission and subsequent recovery serve as a reminder that even elite athletes face challenges and must find ways to adapt. The Atlanta Dream continue to solidify their position as a top team in the WNBA, with their collective strength and individual brilliance, like Reese’s, powering their campaign.
