The stage is set for a thrilling WNBA season opener as Angel Reese makes her highly anticipated debut with the Atlanta Dream against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Arena. This matchup pits two of last season's top-three finishers against each other, and while neither reached the Finals, both teams are hungry to make a deeper run this year.

Reese's arrival in Atlanta came via an offseason trade that caught the league by surprise, instantly adding a dynamic presence to a roster already loaded with talent. The Dream locked in Allisha Gray, their leading scorer from 2026, with a three-year max-plus deal. Gray, an Olympic Gold Medalist, averaged 18.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game last season. She'll be joined by 2022 No. 1 overall pick Rhyne Howard, who contributed 17.1 points and 4.6 assists per game. However, the Dream will start the season without Brionna Jones, who is recovering from right knee surgery in April.

On the other side, the Lynx are led by Napheesa Collier, who signed a one-year max contract after finishing second in the WNBA in scoring last season, trailing only A'ja Wilson. Collier's elite defense—ranking in the top five for both blocks and steals—makes her a two-way force. But the Lynx face an early challenge: Collier underwent left ankle surgery in March and is expected to be sidelined until June, per team statements.

Minnesota has reloaded with key offseason additions, including No. 2 overall draft pick Olivia Miles. The Lynx also brought in Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, Natasha Howard, and Nia Coffey, who collectively formed the starting five in their final preseason game. This revamped lineup will look to pick up the slack while Collier recovers.

Tip-off is set for 8:00 p.m. ET, and with both teams eyeing a strong start, expect a fast-paced, physical battle. Stay tuned for live updates and highlights as Reese's Atlanta era begins.