The Atlanta Dream opened their preseason with an impressive 87-78 win over the Chicago Sky, and there was a lot to take away from this first real look at the team.
From offensive flow to defensive intensity to standout individual performances, Atlanta gave fans plenty to be excited about.
Here’s everything you need to know.
The Offense Is Real — And So Is the Defense
We expected the offense under head coach Karl Smesko to look good.
And it did.
When the Dream pushed the pace and played with intent, the offense was:
- Smooth
- Fluid
- Efficient
They were able to build a 15-point lead early, showing just how dangerous this system can be when it’s clicking.
But here’s what stood out even more:
The defense.
This team didn’t just score — they controlled the game defensively.
That combination is what makes this version of the Dream feel different.
Angel Reese Is Everything Advertised
Angel Reese was the headline — and she delivered.
She looked comfortable.
She looked confident.
And most importantly, she looked like a perfect fit.
Reese brought:
- Rebounding dominance
- Interior scoring
- Physicality
- Transition energy
It didn’t feel like her first game with the Dream.
That’s a great sign.
She fits exactly what this team needed — a forward who can control the glass, run the floor, and bring toughness inside.
Isobel Borlase Looks Like the Real Deal
There’s been a lot of hype around Isobel Borlase, and she backed it up.
Even though her shot wasn’t falling consistently, she still finished with:
- 13 points
- 3 assists
What stood out most?
She didn’t look like a rookie.
She played:
- Calm
- Controlled
- Confident
That kind of composure is rare.
She showed the ability to score, create, and facilitate — making her a potential long-term staple for this team.
Madina Okot’s Intangibles Are Jumping Off the Screen
Madina Okot continues to show why her ceiling is so high.
Her impact goes beyond stats.
She brings:
- Size
- Rebounding
- Interior presence
- Finishing ability
The tools are obvious.
Now it’s about development.
If the Dream invest time into her growth, she could become a major piece for this team down the line.
Te-Hina Paopao Continues to Be Underrated
Te-Hina Paopao quietly had a strong showing.
She does a lot of things that don’t always show up in headlines:
- Defends
- Runs the offense
- Spaces the floor
- Hits big shots
And when the team needs a bucket?
She can deliver.
Paopao looks ready to take another step in Year 2.
Sika Koné Adds Frontcourt Depth
Sika Koné didn’t dominate the stat sheet, but her presence was felt.
She’s an:
- Athletic rim runner
- Physical finisher
- Energy player
Even in limited action, you can see how she can help this team — especially as a depth piece in the frontcourt.
Developmental Spot Watch: Sacha Washington
If there’s one player who made a strong case for a developmental spot, it’s Sacha Washington.
She showed:
- Physicality inside
- Ability to score down low
- Touch around the basket
She plays like a bruiser — and with time, learning under Brionna Jones, she could develop into a valuable piece.
There’s still competition for that final spot, but Washington made a statement.
Final Thoughts
It’s just one preseason game — but the early signs are encouraging.
The Dream showed:
- Offensive potential
- Defensive intensity
- Depth across the roster
- Strong young talent
More importantly, they showed fit.
This team looks like it understands how it wants to play.
And if this is just the beginning…
Atlanta might be building something special. 🏀🔥