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The Atlanta Hawks are staring down elimination tonight as they host the New York Knicks in Game 6 of their 2026 NBA Eastern Conference First Round playoff series.
With the Knicks leading the best-of-seven series 3-2, Thursday night’s matchup at State Farm Arena (7:00 p.m. ET, ESPN) is a must-win for the Hawks, while New York has a chance to punch their ticket to the second round.
Hawks Face Elimination in Game 6 as Knicks Look to Close Out Series at State Farm Arena
The series has been a back-and-forth battle with moments of high drama. The Knicks took Game 1 convincingly (113-102) behind strong play from Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. Atlanta responded in Game 2 with a thrilling 107-106 road win, highlighted by CJ McCollum’s heroics.
The Hawks then stole Game 3 at home (109-108) on another late McCollum bucket, taking a brief 2-1 lead.
New York evened things in Game 4 with a dominant 114-98 victory in Atlanta before delivering a statement 126-97 blowout in Game 5 at Madison Square Garden, where Brunson dropped 39 points.
During the game, it seems NBA commentator Reggie Miller (a former Knicks killer) lost his objectivity a few times.
That Game 5 performance was a reminder of why the Knicks entered the postseason as the stronger, more complete team.
New York controlled the paint, dictated the tempo, and overwhelmed Atlanta defensively. The Hawks, meanwhile, have shown flashes of fight—especially at home—but have struggled with consistency against New York’s physicality and half-court execution.
Key Storylines for Game 6
Hawks’ Must-Win Mentality at Home
Atlanta has been a tougher out in front of the State Farm Arena crowd this season. To force a Game 7, they’ll need a massive bounce-back effort after the Game 5 embarrassment. Look for Trae Young (when healthy/available) or the backcourt combination involving McCollum and others to generate pace and create open looks. Jalen Johnson has been a bright spot with energy and production, but the Hawks’ frontcourt has been outmatched by New York’s size, particularly Karl-Anthony Towns. Defensive intensity and rebounding will be non-negotiable if the Hawks hope to extend the series.Knicks’ Opportunity to Clinch
New York enters with all the momentum and a clear path forward.Their keys remain the same that fueled the Game 5 rout: protecting the paint, limiting transition opportunities, and letting Brunson orchestrate the offense.
Brunson has been the best player in the series, showing why he’s one of the league’s premier closers. Supporting contributions from Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart have given the Knicks a versatile, two-way roster that’s built for playoff success. If they avoid complacency on the road, they should be able to close this out.
Matchup Advantages
- Frontcourt Dominance: The Knicks have consistently outscored the Hawks in the paint and on the glass thanks to superior size and physicality.
- Star Power: Brunson vs. Atlanta’s guard play has been the biggest individual edge.
- Home Court Pressure: While the Hawks need the energy from the Atlanta faithful, the Knicks have shown they can win on the road when focused.
Injuries and lineup adjustments will be monitored closely leading up to tip-off, as both teams have dealt with availability questions throughout the series.
Prediction and Outlook
Most analysts see the Knicks as heavy favorites to close the series in Game 6, given their superior roster construction, recent dominance, and playoff pedigree.
However, playoff basketball is unpredictable—especially with a desperate home team. If Atlanta can manufacture enough offense and defensive stops to make it ugly, they might drag this to a decisive Game 7 back in New York.
For Hawks fans, tonight is about pride, fight, and keeping the season alive one more game. For the Knicks, it’s about finishing the job efficiently and preparing for a tougher test in the Conference Semifinals.
Don’t miss it: Hawks vs. Knicks Game 6 from State Farm Arena. The season is on the line for Atlanta, while New York is one win away from advancing.
What are your keys to the game? Can the Hawks force Game 7, or do the Knicks finish it tonight? Drop your thoughts below.
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Get ready to welcome May in the most creative way possible! The Roswell Spring Arts Festival returns for its annual two-day celebration on Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026, transforming the scenic grounds of Roswell City Hall into a vibrant outdoor gallery.
The free, family-friendly event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, offering the perfect spring weekend filled with art, live music, and community spirit.
Roswell Spring Arts Festival: What to Expect
Visitors can explore the work of approximately 100 talented artists showcasing a wide variety of mediums, including painting, photography, sculpture, metalwork, glass art, jewelry, and more.
Beyond browsing and shopping for unique pieces, attendees will enjoy live artist demonstrations, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
The festival will also feature live music throughout the weekend, along with a selection of food trucks offering delicious bites—including healthy options—to keep energy levels high while exploring the grounds.
Set against the beautiful backdrop of Roswell City Hall at 38 Hill Street, Roswell, GA 30075, the event provides a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere for art lovers of all ages. Best of all, the entire festival is free to attend, and dogs are welcome—making it a perfect outing for the whole family (and furry family members too!).
Event Details
WHAT: Roswell Spring Arts Festival
WHEN:- Saturday, May 2, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday, May 3, 2026 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: 38 Hill Street, Roswell, GA 30075
COST: Free admission. Open to all ages. Dog friendly.Whether you’re a serious art collector, a casual browser, or simply looking for a fun spring weekend activity, the Roswell Spring Arts Festival promises a memorable experience packed with creativity and community.
For more information, visit the official websites:
Stay connected on social media:
- Instagram: @affps_festivals
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/affps
Mark your calendars and plan to spend the first weekend of May surrounded by art, music, and inspiration in beautiful Roswell, Georgia!
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Metro Atlanta’s favorite water park, Six Flags White Water, has announced its opening date for 2026. It will open its gates for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 9, launching a summer packed with fresh investments designed to enhance guest comfort, convenience, and fun.
The highlight of the season is a significant renovation of the park’s iconic Little Hooch Lazy River, one of its signature attractions since the park’s debut in 1984.
Six Flags Over Georgia 2026 Opening Date
While the beloved lazy river experience itself remains unchanged, the infrastructure project focuses on long-term durability to ensure the unique, one-of-a-kind layout continues delighting families for years to come.
The refreshed attraction is scheduled to reopen later this summer.
“This is always one of the most exciting times of the year for our team, and we’re excited to welcome guests back to the park,” said Lindsey Lambert, water park director. “This season, our investment in the Little Hooch Lazy River is especially significant. While the attraction guests know and love isn’t changing, the infrastructure project reinforces our long-term commitment to maintaining the experiences families return for year after year.”
New Premium Experiences and Amenities
In addition to the lazy river refresh, the park is introducing several guest-focused enhancements:
- New Premium Experience Center: Guests can upgrade their day with cabana and lounge chair rentals, lazy river tube rentals, Fast Lane passes, and other VIP options.
- Fast Lane: A new service that provides shorter wait times at select attractions.
- Expanded Food & Beverage: Freshly squeezed lemonade, hand-spun milkshakes, fried Oreos, and additional tasty options will be available throughout the park.
- Enhanced Relaxation Areas: New lounge chairs, picnic tables, and seating zones offer more comfortable spots to rest between rides.
Summer Hiring Underway
Six Flags White Water is actively recruiting more than 800 seasonal team members for positions in aquatics, food and beverage, park services, security, and other areas.
Benefits include competitive pay, free park admission, tickets for friends and family, scholarships, advancement opportunities, and paid lifeguard training and certification.
A hiring fair is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, from noon to 8 p.m. at the Six Flags White Water Hiring Center, located at 250 Cobb Pkwy N, Marietta, GA 30062. Applications are also being accepted online at jobs.sixflags.com.
Free Pre-K Pass for Young Guests
Families with young children can take advantage of a special promotion.
pThrough May 31, season passholders with kids ages 3–5 can register for a free Pre-K Pass, granting unlimited admission for the entire 2026 season at 22 participating Six Flags parks. Details and registration are available at sixflags.com/pre-k-pass.
Best Value: Memberships and Season Passes
Park officials recommend visiting with a membership or season pass for the best experience and value. A Gold Membership starts at just $7 per month and includes unlimited visits to White Water, free parking, discounts, loyalty rewards, and access to additional parks such as Six Flags Over Georgia and Carowinds.
For the latest deals on season passes and memberships, visit sixflags.com/whitewater.
2026 Operating Schedule
Six Flags White Water will open weekends from May 9–17, with daily operations beginning Friday, May 22.
The combination of a refreshed classic attraction, new premium offerings, expanded dining, and family-friendly promotions positions the 2026 season as one of the most exciting in the park’s 42-year history.
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Atlanta’s intown foodies and families have a new weekly destination starting this weekend.
The Uptown Atlanta Market debuts on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at The Lawn at Uptown, bringing together great food, local shopping, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun in a vibrant community setting.
A Full Day of Food, Shopping, and Entertainment
The market runs every Saturday from May 2 through November 14, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Each week, visitors can explore more than 20 diverse food vendors offering a rotating lineup of culinary options, ensuring fresh discoveries with every visit.
Shoppers will also find a curated selection of local artisans selling handmade goods, crafts, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Beyond eating and shopping, the event features live music throughout the day, nighttime DJ sets, and plenty of kid-friendly activities, including inflatables, face painting, and games.
Sponsor activations, giveaways, and seasonal themed experiences round out the programming, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages.
Location and Practical Details
The Uptown Market takes place on The Lawn at Uptown, an expansive community park located at 521 Market St NE, Atlanta, GA 30324, adjacent to Market Street.
- Admission: Free and open to all ages.
- Parking: Convenient paid parking is available in the Uptown City Center Deck at $5 for the first two hours. Free parking is also offered in the Garson and City Center decks with a valid MARTA ticket.
The market’s central, transit-friendly location makes it easy to reach whether you’re walking, biking, or taking public transportation.
Pair It With Movies on The Lawn
The market launch coincides with the return of Uptown’s Movies on The Lawn, a weekly Thursday night outdoor movie series. Screenings feature popular films, themed activations, and special offerings from Uptown tenants. The series kicks off on Thursday, May 7, with a screening of the 1990s classic Clueless.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re craving street food, hunting for unique handmade items, or looking for a fun weekend outing with the family, the Uptown Atlanta Market offers something for everyone in a welcoming, open-air environment.
For the latest vendor lineup, full schedule details, and updates, visit uptownmarketatl.com. More information about Uptown Atlanta and its full calendar of events can be found at uptownatlanta.com, or by following Uptown on Facebook and Instagram.
Mark your calendars: Saturdays, 11 a.m.–9 p.m., May 2–November 14 at The Lawn at Uptown. Come hungry, bring the kids (or your friends), and get ready to enjoy one of Atlanta’s newest weekly traditions.
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Smokey Bones, the popular barbecue restaurant chain, has suddenly shut down all of its remaining locations across the United States as of April 28, 2026.
The closures came without significant advance notice to employees or customers. Many locations posted simple paper signs on their doors stating that the restaurant had “permanently closed” and thanking guests for their patronage over the years. A company spokesperson, Erin Mandzik, confirmed: “As of yesterday, April 28, 2026, all Smokey Bones locations have ceased operations.”
The chain’s official website now shows every location as closed, with online ordering, reservations, and waitlist features no longer functioning.
Background and Bankruptcy Context
Smokey Bones was originally part of Darden Restaurants before being acquired by FAT Brands Inc. in 2023. In early 2025, the brand was spun off into a separate public company called Twin Hospitality Group Inc., which also owns the Twin Peaks sports bar and restaurant chain.
Twin Hospitality had previously announced plans to optimize its portfolio by closing underperforming Smokey Bones locations and converting others into Twin Peaks restaurants. In summer 2025, the company said it would close 15 locations and convert 19 more.
The situation worsened in January 2026 when both FAT Brands and Twin Hospitality Group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to restructure their finances. Additional closures followed the filings, culminating in the full shutdown of all remaining Smokey Bones restaurants this week.
Impact on Employees and Customers
Reports from multiple states indicate that employees often received little or no warning. For example, staff at some locations learned of the closure on the same day it took effect. Customers were also caught off guard, with some expressing frustration over recently purchased gift cards that may now be difficult to redeem.
The abrupt shutdown affected dozens of restaurants in states including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island, Indiana, and Florida.
As of now, it remains unclear whether any Smokey Bones locations could reopen in the future or if the brand will be sold or revived during the bankruptcy process.
The focus appears to have shifted entirely toward Twin Hospitality’s other concepts.
This marks the end of operations for a chain that once operated dozens of locations known for its smoked meats, barbecue, and casual dining atmosphere.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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A fresh, high-energy interactive entertainment experience is coming to Atlanta this May.
Great Big Game Show, a new attraction created by the team behind the popular The Escape Game, invites guests to step into the spotlight and become contestants in a live, TV-style game show competition at The Battery.
Great Big Game Show Coming To The Battery
Blending elements of trivia, strategy, and fast-paced physical and mental challenges, the experience unfolds in an immersive studio environment designed to feel like a real television production set.
Guests will compete under bright lights, with buzzers, dramatic sound effects, and a live host guiding the action, creating an exciting blend of entertainment and friendly competition.
The venue is built to accommodate a wide range of group sizes and occasions, making it ideal for casual outings with friends and family, birthday celebrations, date nights, or corporate team-building events.
Multiple dedicated game studios will allow several groups to play simultaneously, ensuring a dynamic and efficient experience even during peak times.
First Georgia Location for the Brand
Great Big Game Show marks the brand’s debut in Georgia and further strengthens The Battery Atlanta’s growing reputation as a premier destination for unique and memorable entertainment experiences.
Located adjacent to Truist Park, The Battery continues to attract both locals and visitors with its mix of dining, retail, and now this lively interactive attraction.
Grand Opening Celebration on May 8
To celebrate the launch, Great Big Game Show will host a special opening day party on Saturday, May 8, running from noon to 9 p.m.
During the event, visitors can participate in 15-minute demo games designed for groups of up to 7 players.
The highest-scoring team of the day will have the opportunity to win a $1,000 grand prize.
This interactive format gives potential guests a taste of the full experience while offering a fun, low-commitment way to try out the attraction before booking longer sessions.
What to Expect
Once fully open, Great Big Game Show promises an engaging, laugh-filled experience where strategy, quick thinking, and teamwork all come into play.
Whether you’re a trivia whiz, a natural leader, or someone who thrives under pressure, the games are designed to be inclusive and entertaining for players of varying ages and skill levels.
The combination of professional production elements — lights, cameras, sound, and an energetic host — elevates the experience beyond a typical game room, turning it into a true immersive event that feels like being on your favorite game show.
With its convenient location at The Battery Atlanta and its appeal to both small and large groups, Great Big Game Show is poised to become a popular new entertainment option in the Atlanta area starting in early May.
For more information or to book your group, visitors are encouraged to check the official website or follow Great Big Game Show on social media for updates as the opening date approaches.
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In the latest Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) drama making headlines, cast member Drew Sidora has suffered a major setback in her ongoing divorce from estranged husband Ralph Pittman.
A Georgia judge remained unswayed by Drew Sidora’s claims that she would soon be homeless and denied her motion to reconsider an earlier order forcing her to vacate the marital home by the end of May 2026.
Drew Sidora’s Homeless Plea Shot Down in RHOA Star’s Divorce Case
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, the judge presiding over the high-profile RHOA divorce case rejected Drew Sidora’s request to stay in the Georgia property she has shared with Ralph Pittman since their split.
The couple, who filed for divorce in March 2023, have been living under the same roof—with Ralph occupying the basement—while the case remains unresolved more than three years later.
At a recent hearing, the Real Housewives of Atlanta star argued she had no new housing lined up and lacked the financial resources to make the move, essentially claiming she faced imminent homelessness.
The judge, however, was not convinced and upheld the original eviction timeline.
What This Means for RHOA Fans and Drew Sidora’s Future
This latest ruling in the Drew Sidora divorce adds fresh fuel to one of RHOA’s most talked-about storylines.
Since joining The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Drew Sidora has openly documented the ups and downs of her marriage and separation on the Bravo reality series.
The ongoing legal battle has played out both in the courtroom and on camera, keeping fans glued to every development in Drew Sidora RHOA news.
For now, the order stands: Drew Sidora must leave the shared residence by the end of May.
The divorce itself has yet to be finalized, meaning more courtroom drama could still be ahead for the RHOA cast member.
Background on the Drew Sidora and Ralph Pittman Divorce
The couple’s split first became public in 2023, and the divorce filing followed shortly after. Despite the separation, they continued cohabitating in the same home—an arrangement that has reportedly grown increasingly tense.
Drew Sidora’s recent court filing highlighted her concerns about relocating without adequate preparation or funds, but the judge ultimately sided with the prior decision.
RHOA viewers have watched Drew Sidora navigate single life, co-parenting, and the emotional toll of the divorce throughout recent seasons.
This new development is expected to generate even more buzz when the show returns, as fans speculate how the housing situation will unfold both on and off screen.
Stay tuned for more updates on Drew Sidora RHOA, the latest Drew Sidora divorce news, and all things Real Housewives of Atlanta. As the case progresses, we’ll continue tracking every twist in this high-profile reality TV breakup.
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The Drew Sidora house in Atlanta has captured the attention of Real Housewives of Atlanta fans for years, especially since housing has become such a huge issue of her divorce. Known as “Pittman Palace,” this sprawling Southern mansion in Duluth’s prestigious Sugarloaf Country Club was the lavish home shared by RHOA star Drew Sidora and her ex-husband Ralph Pittman.
Drew Sidora’s Atlanta Mansion Details
Purchased in 2020 for approximately $1.4 million, the Drew Sidora house is a stunning 9,220-square-foot estate built in 1998. It features:
- 6 bedrooms
- 6 full bathrooms
- 3 half bathrooms
The home offers luxury living with professionally selected upgrades throughout.
Highlights include new hardwood floors, a gourmet kitchen with a massive island and top-of-the-line appliances, a private guest bedroom on the main level, and a luxurious master suite with a spacious closet and balcony overlooking a private saltwater pool.
The finished basement adds even more value, complete with full living quarters, a wine cellar, and a reading room — perfect for entertaining or relaxing in style.
Location: Sugarloaf Country Club in Duluth
The Drew Sidora Atlanta mansion sits in the exclusive Sugarloaf Country Club community in Gwinnett County.
This gated enclave spans 1,200 acres of lush grounds and blends European luxury with Southern equestrian charm. It’s minutes from I-85 and close to metro Atlanta’s entertainment district.
Sugarloaf has long been a favorite among RHOA stars — NeNe Leakes previously owned a home in the neighborhood as well.
Drew Sidora House in the Spotlight
Drew Sidora proudly showcased her “beautiful home” on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, giving fans tours of the opulent space often referred to as Pittman Palace.
The mansion became a central part of her storyline during her marriage to Ralph Pittman.
Following their 2023 divorce filing, the Drew Sidora house has remained a point of discussion amid ongoing legal matters, including court orders and property disputes reported in recent years.
Why We Love the Drew Sidora Atlanta Mansion
This luxury property perfectly embodies the glamorous lifestyle associated with RHOA.
From its grand scale and high-end finishes to its prime location in one of Atlanta’s most desirable suburbs, the Drew Sidora house represents Southern elegance at its finest.
Whether you’re a die-hard Real Housewives of Atlanta fan curious about Drew Sidora’s real estate or searching for inspiration from high-end Atlanta homes, this $1.7 million (current valuation) estate stands out as a true Southern palace.
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Professional athlete Angel Reese, the dynamic forward now with the Atlanta Dream, is making some serious money these days — but that’s not how it was just a year ago.
How Much Money Does Angel Reese Make?
Reese is set to earn a base salary of $350,692 in the 2026 WNBA season.
This represents a massive leap from her previous earnings under the old collective bargaining agreement. In 2025, she made approximately $74,909–$81,000.
Don’t look now, but the Atlanta Dream just picked up the option on her rookie deal.
The new CBA, which dramatically increased the salary cap to $7 million per team, adjusted rookie-scale contracts and delivered more than a 400% raise for many young stars like Reese.
Contract Breakdown
Reese was selected No. 7 overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft and signed a four-year rookie-scale deal originally worth about $324,383. Thanks to the new CBA adjustments:
- 2026 (Year 3): $350,692 (base salary and cap hit)
- 2027 (Year 4, team option): $396,282 (already exercised by Atlanta)
If she earns All-WNBA honors in 2026, she could become eligible for a maximum contract worth up to around $1.4 million annually starting in 2028.
Read up on Angel Reese’s meteoric rise to fame.
Her current deal provides excellent value for the Dream, representing just a small fraction of the expanded salary cap while locking in a proven double-double machine through at least 2027.
Endorsements: Where the Real Money Is
While her WNBA salary has grown significantly, Reese’s true earning power comes off the court. In 2025, Forbes estimated her total earnings at $9.4 million, with roughly $9 million coming from endorsements, appearances, licensing, and other ventures — dwarfing her on-court pay.
She has built one of the most lucrative personal brands in women’s basketball, partnering with major companies including:
- Reebok (including her own signature shoe line)
- McDonald’s (her own branded meal)
- PlayStation
- Beats by Dre
- Amazon
- Cash App
- Hershey’s (Reese’s Pieces)
- Calvin Klein
- And dozens more across fashion, tech, food, and lifestyle categories
Her marketability — fueled by her personality, style, and on-court dominance — has made her a crossover star.
Estimates of her annual endorsement income have consistently hovered in the high seven figures, and with her profile continuing to rise after the move to Atlanta, those numbers are expected to grow even further in 2026 and beyond.
Overall Financial Picture
Reese’s combination of a solid (and rising) WNBA salary with the Atlanta Dream plus elite endorsement deals has pushed her net worth estimates into the millions.
She’s frequently ranked among the highest-paid female athletes globally, proving that star power in the WNBA now translates into serious financial opportunities both on and off the court.
As the league’s popularity surges, players like Angel Reese are at the forefront of a new era where basketball excellence and brand building go hand in hand. For fans and aspiring athletes alike, her trajectory shows just how far the WNBA — and its stars — have come.
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The Atlanta Dream announced on Monday they’re exercising Reese’s $396,282 fourth-year rookie option, securing her through 2027 after acquiring her from the Chicago Sky on April 6 in exchange for their 2027 and 2028 first-round picks.
Reese, the No. 7 pick from LSU in 2024, averaged strong double-doubles in Chicago despite team struggles and her wrist injury, but now joins a playoff-tested Atlanta squad with Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, and Naz Hillmon in a fast-paced system.
Teammates like Gray are already praising her training camp energy, and Reese vows more aggression as the team eyes a deeper playoff run, starting with a preseason homecoming against her old team Wednesday.
A Bold Bet on a Double-Double Machine
Atlanta’s front office is making it clear: they’re all-in on building around one of the WNBA’s most dynamic young forwards. By picking up the team option on Reese’s rookie-scale deal, the Dream ensure continuity through at least the 2027 season.
The move comes just weeks after the blockbuster trade that sent two future first-rounders to Chicago, signaling long-term commitment to the 23-year-old two-time All-Star and rebounding standout.
Angel Reese Salary: How Much Will She Make in 2026 From WNBA?
Angel Reese will earn a base salary of $350,692 in 2026 from her WNBA contract.
Read up on how much Angel Reese makes.
This is her third year on the four-year rookie-scale deal she originally signed with the Chicago Sky after being drafted No. 7 overall in 2024.
Under the original terms, her 2026 salary would have been around $75,000–$81,000, but the league’s new Collective Bargaining Agreement (ratified in early 2026) includes significant raises and adjusts existing rookie contracts to the updated scale.
In her first two professional seasons with the Sky, Reese established herself as a force on the boards, becoming the only player in league history to average at least 12 rebounds per game in multiple seasons.
Her ability to dominate the paint, combined with improving scoring and playmaking, made her a natural fit for Atlanta’s up-tempo, position-less style under head coach Karl Smesko.
Seamless Fit in a Rising Contender
The Dream already boast a formidable core. Rhyne Howard provides elite scoring and versatility, Allisha Gray brings championship pedigree and perimeter defense, and Naz Hillmon anchors the interior with efficiency and toughness.
Adding Reese creates a frontcourt and transition attack that could overwhelm opponents.
Teammates have taken notice during early practices. Gray, in particular, highlighted Reese’s infectious energy and work ethic. “She’s bringing it every day,” Gray said. “The intensity she plays with is going to elevate everyone.”
Reese herself expressed excitement about the fresh start. “This is a new chapter,” she noted. “I’m ready to be more aggressive, play with even more force, and help this team make a serious playoff push. Atlanta feels like home already.”
Preseason Homecoming Sets the Tone
The narrative gets even better for fans: Atlanta’s preseason schedule includes a matchup against the Chicago Sky, giving Reese an immediate chance to face her former team on her new home floor. It’s a storyline tailor-made for highlight reels and emotional moments.
With the WNBA’s new CBA elevating salaries league-wide, locking in Reese at the fourth-year number represents excellent value, especially with her trajectory pointing toward max-contract territory in the near future.
If she earns All-WNBA honors this season, future earnings could skyrocket—but for now, Atlanta has secured one of the league’s brightest stars at a team-friendly rate.3
The Dream’s aggressive offseason moves—securing core pieces and swinging the biggest trade of the spring—position them as legitimate contenders in the stacked Eastern Conference.
For Angel Reese, it’s the opportunity to chase a title alongside proven winners in a system that should maximize her strengths.
Expect the “Chi-Barbie” to turn into “ATL’s Angel” very quickly. The WNBA season just got a whole lot more exciting.
