Angel Reese's Record Night, Emotional Reunion Help Dream Clinch Playoff Berth
Angel Reese delivered the best game of her WNBA career on Saturday, powering the Atlanta Dream to a playoff-clinching victory over the Phoenix Mercury. But the night was also marked by a heartfelt reunion with her former LSU teammate, Last-Tear Poa, that resonated with fans and players alike.
Reese posted a career-high 31 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, and 4 steals as the Dream secured their spot in the 2026 WNBA playoffs with a third consecutive win. The victory came just a week after Reese missed a potential game-winner against the Indiana Fever, showing the resilience that has defined her season.
Emotional Reunion With Former LSU Champion Teammate
Before the game, cameras captured Reese and Poa sharing a warm moment on the court in Phoenix. Poa, who played her first two seasons with Reese at LSU, wore a pink outfit as she made her way to greet her former teammate. The two posed for a selfie, with Poa snapping the photo on her phone before they continued their conversation.
The broadcast did not capture what the two former Tigers discussed, but their bond is well-documented. In 2024, when Poa suffered a scary injury during the SEC tournament semifinal against Ole Miss, Reese was among the first to offer support. After LSU won the SEC championship that year, Reese dedicated the victory to her injured teammate.
“I LOVE YOU POA! THIS FOR YOU 13!” Reese wrote on Instagram at the time.
Poa Credits Reese for Changing Women's Basketball
Poa has publicly credited Reese for being the “main reason why women's basketball changed” in 2023. Reese's intense rivalry with Caitlin Clark, highlighted by her championship ring gesture and “you can't see me” taunt, ignited one of the biggest storylines in women's basketball and filled arenas across the country.
That rivalry has carried over to the WNBA, where Reese and Clark continue to draw massive attention. Poa, now playing professionally in Australia, reflected on her time with Reese in an exclusive interview with basketball.com.au.
“She brought intensity and stood on business. I loved playing with Angel — I wish I could again. She taught me a lot — on and off the court. Being the point guard, when I got the ball, she was running — she made things easy. And if we shot, she'd get the rebound. Her shoulders were heavy, but she wore that crown to the top,” Poa said.
Poa's Gritty Legacy at LSU
Poa was known for her defensive tenacity and willingness to draw charges during her college career. In LSU's 2023 national championship game against Iowa, she played just seven minutes but made a significant impact, drawing two charges on Clark and hitting both of her 3-point attempts.
Despite declaring for the 2026 WNBA draft, Poa went undrafted. She has since returned to Australia, where she plays for the Albury-Wodonga Bandits in NBL1 East. She has made an immediate impact, averaging 9.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 7 assists in her first two games, including a triple-double.
Reese's Continued Dominance in the WNBA
Reese's performance on Saturday underscores her status as one of the league's most dominant players. Her competitive stamina and relentless style have made her a fan favorite and a polarizing figure, but her production speaks for itself.
The Dream's playoff berth is a testament to Reese's leadership and the team's resilience. With the postseason approaching, Atlanta will look to build on its momentum, and Reese will be at the center of it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Angel Reese's career-high performance?
Angel Reese recorded 31 points, 14 rebounds, 2 assists, and 4 steals in the Atlanta Dream's win over the Phoenix Mercury on August 22, 2026.
Who is Last-Tear Poa?
Last-Tear Poa is an Australian basketball player who played with Angel Reese at LSU, winning a national championship in 2023. She now plays for the Albury-Wodonga Bandits in Australia.
Did the Atlanta Dream clinch a playoff spot?
Yes, the Atlanta Dream clinched a 2026 WNBA playoff spot with their third consecutive win, defeating the Phoenix Mercury on August 22.