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Dream’s Angel Reese opens up about close relationship with Karl Smesko

Angel Reese is thriving in her first season with the Atlanta Dream, delivering her most impressive campaign yet as the team pushes toward a WNBA Finals berth. The 23-year-old guard has formed a tight bond with head coach Karl Smesko, whose daily involvement in her training and skill development has been a key factor in her confidence and growth.

Reese highlighted Smesko’s hands-on approach—from shared workouts to pregame routines—as a defining aspect of her success, calling his belief in her potential transformative. "He shows up for me in every way," Reese said, emphasizing the coach’s commitment to her long-term development, including his prediction that she will become an MVP-level player.

The duo’s dynamic extends beyond the court, with Reese noting how she helps bring out a more expressive side in the typically reserved Smesko, even sharing a playful handshake ritual that has become a team tradition. Their relationship underscores the Dream’s cohesive culture as they prepare for Game 3 of the semifinals against the New York Liberty, a matchup that could solidify their historic playoff run.

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