​When the Atlanta Dream face the Los Angeles Sparks on Monday night, they are hoping that WNBA star forward Angel Reese will be back in action. Reese was ruled out with a right lower leg injury in the Dream’s previous game against Portland, a 102-92 setback for Atlanta. The injury occurred in the final minute of the earlier matchup with the Seattle Storm, an issue head coach Karl Smesko said left her status for Saturday uncertain before she ultimately sat out.
Reese was seen wearing a walking boot on her right foot during the Portland game. While that image typically suggests a more serious problem, it could simply be precautionary, and it doesn’t necessarily indicate a severe injury. Follow our tracker for the latest updates on Reese’s status as tip-off nears on Monday night.
As of now, there is no definitive update on whether Reese will play against the Sparks. The Dream’s official injury report lists her with a leg injury and designates her as questionable to play, making her a game-time decision. That means her status may not be known until just before the game starts, with Atlanta delaying a final verdict until roughly 30 minutes before tip-off.
A. Three-time WNBA All-Star, Reese is among the league’s top rebounders and interior scorers, and her absence would be a significant blow to Atlanta’s hopes of beating Los Angeles. She is currently averaging 15 points and 11.7 rebounds per game, a personal best in scoring while leading the league in rebounds per game. If she ends up unavailable, the Dream will miss her contributions on both ends of the floor.
On the bright side for Atlanta, the Sparks have been among the least effective rebounders in the league this season, which could help offset the loss of Reese on the boards. Still, her presence would be deeply missed on both the glass and the offensive end, where she can stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities for teammates.
When and where: Monday, July 13, at 7 p.m. ET, at Gateway Center Arena in College Park, Georgia. The game will be broadcast on USA Network, with additional streams on Atlanta News First, Spectrum Sports Network, and Victory+ Sports Network Atlanta, giving fans multiple ways to tune in.
For fans following Reese’s status, stay tuned to team updates as tip-off approaches. If she is cleared to play, her return could provide a much-needed boost to Atlanta’s rotation and depth as they attempt to slow down a Los Angeles squad that will be hungry to snap a skid. If she remains sidelined, the Dream will have to rely on their depth and collective defense to compensate in a matchup that could hinge on rebounding and interior play. This game also presents an opportunity for Reese to showcase her versatility and impact even if she is limited, given the Sparks’ rebounding struggles and Atlanta’s need for strong interior presence.