Angel Reese is thrilled about the Dream's new 'walking double-double' teammate
The WNBA star is already hyped about her new draft-day teammate from Atlanta's first-round pick.
At a glance
What matters most
- The Atlanta Dream selected a standout college forward in the first round of the 2026 WNBA Draft, drawing immediate praise from star player Angel Reese.
- Reese called the new teammate a 'walking double-double,' highlighting her consistent rebounding and scoring ability.
- The pick is seen as a major step in rebuilding the Dream into a competitive force in the Eastern Conference.
- Fans and analysts alike are optimistic about the on-court chemistry between Reese and the rookie.
Across the spectrum
What people are saying
A quick look at how the same story is being framed from different angles.
On the Left
This pick reflects a smart, team-first approach to building a more inclusive and dynamic WNBA. Investing in young, diverse talent like Okot-and having stars like Reese champion them-shows how women's sports are growing through collaboration and visibility.
In the Center
The Dream made a logical, high-upside choice by drafting Okot. Her college stats and fit with Reese make her a strong candidate to contribute early, which is exactly what a rebuilding team needs from a first-rounder.
On the Right
Smart drafting wins championships. Atlanta focused on fundamentals-size, rebounding, toughness-and got a player who produces without flash. That kind of disciplined pick is how teams build real, lasting value.
Full coverage
What you should know
Angel Reese couldn't hide her excitement after the Atlanta Dream made their first-round pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. The team selected Madina Okot, a dominant forward out of the University of Oregon, and Reese wasted no time calling her the perfect addition. "She's a walking double-double," Reese said in a post-draft interview, a nod to Okot's consistent scoring and rebounding throughout her college career.
Okot averaged 18.4 points and 11.2 rebounds per game last season, earning her a spot on the All-American second team. At 6-foot-4 with a strong frame and sharp instincts, she's seen as a natural complement to Reese's aggressive style. The two now form what could be one of the most formidable frontcourts in the league, especially in the paint.
The Dream finished near the bottom of the Eastern Conference last season, missing the playoffs for the second year in a row. But this pick signals a clear shift in strategy-building through the post and physicality. With Reese already establishing herself as a fan favorite and top-tier rebounder, adding Okot gives Atlanta a young, durable core to grow around.
Reese, who joined the Dream last season after a standout college run at LSU, said she saw parts of herself in Okot's game. "She plays with fire, she wants every board, and she doesn't back down," Reese said. "That's the kind of energy we need."
While rookies often take time to adjust to the pro game, Okot's physical readiness and basketball IQ have analysts predicting a smooth transition. Some even think she could challenge for Rookie of the Year if she earns consistent minutes.
The Dream's front office has been quietly reshaping the roster with an eye on long-term growth. This pick, widely praised across draft analysts, fits that vision. It also gives fans a fresh reason to believe in the team's direction-especially with Reese so visibly invested in her new teammate's success.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how Reese and Okot develop their on-court chemistry. If their early synergy is any indication, the Dream might not be sleeping much longer.
About this author
Zwely News Staff compiles multi-source reporting into concise, viewpoint-aware coverage for readers who want context without noise.
Source Notes
Angel Reese couldn’t be happier with Dream’s ‘walking double-double’ first-round draft pick
Atlanta’s pick at this year’s WNBA draft appears to be a Dream come true for the team’s newest star, Angel Reese.
Angel Reese Reacts to Her New Dream Teammate From WNBA Draft
Atlanta Dream star Angel Reese reacted to seeing who her brand new teammate would be from the 2026 WNBA Draft.
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