Angel Reese didn’t join the Chicago Sky for an easy ride, and with Karl Smesko pushing her, she says she plans to use the pressure as fuel.

According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, on her first day under new head coach Karl Smesko, Angel Reese said she’s being coached in new ways she didn’t experience during her two years with the Chicago Sky.

“It says that a coach really believes in me and what I can do, and he trusts my vision as well as what his vision is,” Angel Reese said when asked about Karl Smesko taking her input.

“Being coachable isn’t just about taking it, it’s about wanting it … I really want to be coached, I want to be coached hard and be put in predicaments I am uncomfortable with to help me get better,” she added.

On April 6, Chicago traded Reese to Atlanta for first-round picks in 2027 and 2028 and a second-round swap in 2028.

The Dream, who won 30 games last season, are now a clear title contender in 2026. They want to win their first championship after losing three times in the Finals.

The Chicago Sky weren't easy for Reese. They only won 23 games in two seasons and missed the playoffs both times. Reese often had to step outside of her comfort zone and be the go-to player when things got tough.

But things are different with the Atlanta Dream.

With veterans like Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray in charge, the 23-year-old has a chance to work on her game with Smesko and other players who have been there before.

Her success now depends on her performance in this new system.

Angel Reese Welcomes Challenge with Atlanta Dream

Smesko's rigorous coaching style provides the specific development Reese sought during the offseason.

Reese also highlighted the positive culture within her new organization.

“I mean, just being able to come to the gym and be surrounded by great people,” Reese said. “I didn’t have to think anything about basketball, and that’s what you want as a professional."

While scoring isn’t her strength, Angel Reese dominates on the boards as a two-time rebounding leader, and with shooting numbers of 42.8% from the field and 18.4% from three.

But with a strong connection already building with the coaching staff, Angel Reese looks set to settle in quickly with the Atlanta Dream.

She is expected to be at her best when she tips off her stint on April 29 against her former team, the Chicago Sky.

That said, will the Atlanta Dream environment help Reese improve her scoring efficiency this season? What do you think?

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Written by

Sauramita Debbarma

Edited by

Utsav Gupta