Angel Reese's Hot Streak Powers Atlanta Dream Into WNBA Playoffs

Angel Reese set a career high Saturday, scoring 31 points with 14 rebounds in the Atlanta Dream's 99-89 road win over the Phoenix Mercury.

It came two days after Reese went 9-for-9 from the field against the Los Angeles Sparks.

Atlanta improved to 24-13 with Saturday's win and clinched a playoff berth. The Dream are fourth in the WNBA standings.

Reese did much of her damage late against Phoenix. Atlanta led by as many as 15 before the Mercury cut the deficit to one in the third quarter. Reese scored 15 points in the fourth.

Her previous career high was 27 points, set during her rookie season with the Chicago Sky.

Saturday was the latest big game in a strong stretch for Reese.

On Thursday, she finished with 20 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and three steals in Atlanta's 124-88 win over Los Angeles. Reese did not miss a shot, finishing 9-for-9 from the field.

The 124 points were a franchise record for the Dream. Reese also made WNBA history. She became the first player in league history with at least 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and three steals in a game without missing a field-goal attempt.

Nikola Jokić is the only NBA player to post that combination. He did it during the 2018-19 season.

According to the Associated Press, Reese also became the third player in WNBA history to record a 20-point double-double while going perfect from the field.

Reese is averaging 16.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 44.1% from the field.

Atlanta acquired Reese during the offseason after three straight first-round playoff exits. The Dream have reached the postseason every year since 2023 but have not won a playoff series during that stretch.

Reese will now make the first playoff appearance of her WNBA career.

She has also added to Atlanta's presence on the glass and defense. Reese remains a league leader in rebounds and steals and is increasingly contributing on offense.

Her personality has been noticeable, too. Reese has six technical fouls this season and has been one of Atlanta's more vocal players on the floor.

The Dream have won three straight games. Reese had 21 points and 10 rebounds against the Las Vegas Aces before her 20-point night against Los Angeles and career-high 31 against Phoenix.

That gives her 72 points and 34 rebounds over Atlanta's last three games.

The Dream have secured their playoff spot. Remaining games will determine Atlanta's playoff position after three consecutive first-round exits.