Angel Reese celebrated Rhyne Howard after Atlanta Dream’s Friday win over the Dallas Wings, praising Howard as both an All-Star and an “MVP-caliber” leader on offense and defense.
Atlanta’s third win of the season didn’t just come with a scoreboard push—it came with a reminder of what Rhyne Howard can change in a game.
On Friday night against the Dallas Wings, Howard finished with 25 points, eight assists and four steals. She set the tone from the beginning on both sides of the ball, and the impact was loud enough that her new teammate could barely contain the gratitude.
Angel Reese has faced Howard the past two seasons, but this time it’s different: Reese gets to play alongside her. After the Wings game, Reese didn’t offer careful praise—she delivered a message built on day-to-day basketball realities.
“She makes life easier,” Reese said. “She can score at all levels and then also on the defensive end. She brings an intensity to our team and brings everybody up. and plays at a high standard every single play and every single possession. She’s just a great leader for us. An All-Star caliber player, an MVP-caliber player. She doesn’t get enough credit for it, so I’m grateful to be on this side.”.
The respect wasn’t limited to Reese. Karl Smesko also spoke highly of the level Howard played at last season and how her game has continued evolving. After Friday’s performance, Smesko pointed to what he’s seen with his own eyes—from training camp through the approach Howard has taken this year.
“Rhy had just an amazing all-around game,” Smesko said. “I’ve seen it in training camp all year. This has been a different approach for Rhy from the very beginning of this year. and I think we’re starting to see what she is capable of becoming. I’m just really proud of the way she played today. and hopefully it keeps building from here. but that was just an all-around high-level. exceptional game.”.
For the Atlanta Dream. where the next step often depends on which version of their leaders show up. games like Friday’s performance are the kind that set expectations in motion. Howard’s teammates and coaches know what she’s capable of. and after a 25-point. eight-assist. four-steal showing. they’ll want to see it again—on every night. not just the ones that feel special.
Atlanta Dream Dallas Wings Rhyne Howard Angel Reese WNBA