NBA legend Carmelo Anthony explains why Angel Reese trade was needed

The Chicago Sky made a trade that immediately split opinions across the WNBA . The franchise sent Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream in exchange for first-round picks in 2027 and 2028, plus swap rights on Chicago’s 2028 second-round selection. The reaction came fast, with plenty of people calling it one of the worst deals in recent league history.

Carmelo Anthony was not buying that narrative. MORE: Angel Reese sparks ticket sales spike for Atlanta Dream Carmelo Anthony sees Angel Reese boosting Atlanta Dream hopes During a recent segment of his podcast, “ 7 PM in Brooklyn ,” the former NBA star defended the move, pointing to the haul of future assets Chicago brought back. He also broke down why the trade made sense for both the organization and Reese herself.

“I think it was a good trade. I think it was needed for both parties, for the organization and Angel. I say Angel was getting too big as far as who she is, as far as her brand, for the organization in the sense.

She needs to be in a place like Atlanta, in a place where the community supports her. Not to say Chicago didn’t support. They supported the [expletive] out of Angel.