Angel Reese’s Leadership Powers Atlanta Dream Comeback Over Dallas Wings

DALLAS— With the Atlanta Dream trailing the Dallas Wings by as many as 15 points entering the fourth quarter, someone had to believe the comeback was still possible. That someone, according to Allisha Gray, was Angel Reese. “Angel always instills that confidence in me. She reminds me of who I am.” It was more than a postgame compliment. It was a glimpse into why this Atlanta Dream team keeps finding ways to win.

Every contender needs someone to lead the huddle and someone to finish the game. Atlanta has both.

That quote may also capture Atlanta's evolving identity. Gray is one of the quietest stars in the WNBA, rarely seeking attention and often letting her play speak for itself. But when the game reaches winning time, she becomes one of the league's most reliable closers. According to Gray, Reese helps unlock that confidence.

Gray once again delivered when the Dream needed her most. She finished with 25 points, shot a perfect 9-for-9 from the free-throw line, and recorded her 13th 20-point game of the season.

Her biggest contributions came in the fourth quarter. After Dallas built a 64-52 lead entering the final period, Gray scored 13 of her 25 points in the quarter, calmly knocking down seven free throws while helping Atlanta outscore the Wings 30-17 to complete an 82-81 comeback victory.

DALLAS, TX - Angel Reese drives the ball up the court vs Dallas Wings in debut of her Reebok x Barbie colorway, image via Atlanta Dream

While Gray closed the game, Reese made sure Atlanta remained within striking distance. Reese finished with her 18th double-double of the season, recording 22 points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four steals, and one block while impacting every facet of the game. Atlanta also dominated the paint with 58 points, a reflection of Reese's relentless interior presence.

Reese's influence extended beyond the box score. Even after Dallas stretched its lead to 15 during the third quarter, Reese continued directing teammates, bringing energy, and providing the vocal leadership that has become increasingly important for this Dream team.

The numbers reinforce just how effective this group has become together. Atlanta improved to 17-6 when starting Jordin Canada, Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, Naz Hillmon, and Angel Reese. The Dream also completed a regular-season sweep of the Dallas Wings and improved to 32-20 all-time against the franchise.

At some point, chemistry stops being potential and starts becoming identity.

The Final Cut

The Dream continue to find new ways to win.

Atlanta's comeback wasn’t fueled by one player. It was powered by two different kinds of leadership. Allisha Gray delivered when the game was on the line, while Angel Reese continued to provide the confidence, energy, and accountability that have become staples of Atlanta’s identity. As the playoff race intensifies, those qualities matter just as much as points and rebounds.

The best leaders don’t always take the final shot. Sometimes they give someone else the confidence to make it.