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Tina Charles Says Angel Reese Is “Exactly What You Want” Entering The WNBA Finals

Angel Reese’s transformation from a polarizing rookie to a Finals-caliber force is being celebrated by one of the WNBA’s most respected voices. Tina Charles, a two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star, singled out Reese as the exact kind of dominant interior presence the Atlanta Dream need to contend for a championship.

Charles highlighted Reese’s relentless mindset, emphasizing that her impact extends far beyond box-score numbers—her fearless approach and ability to impose her will on games create a ripple effect for her teammates. The praise comes as Reese, now in her third WNBA season, has silenced early critics with a breakout campaign, averaging 18.0 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks while shooting 43.3% from the field and 87.1% from the free-throw line—a stark improvement over her draft-year struggles in Chicago.

Reese’s growth has been underscored by moments like her physical confrontation with Sabrina Ionescu in the semifinals, a display Charles framed as a message to opponents: a warning that no player will be allowed to disrespect her or her team. The Dream face the Golden State Valkyries in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday, and with Reese leading the charge, Atlanta enters the series with the kind of tenacious, high-energy presence that could turn the tide.

For Reese, this Finals run also marks a personal milestone as the first player from her celebrated college class to reach the league’s championship round, capping a season that has redefined her career trajectory.

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