Angel Reese introduces Rhyne Howard’s new nickname, “The Permission”— and here’s why it’s perfect

Rhyne Howard. | NBAE via Getty Images Three-time WNBA All-Star Rhyne Howard returned to the court Friday night to help the Atlanta Dream secure an 86-69 win against the Dallas Wings. Howard was sidelined during the Dream’s game against the Las Vegas Aces last Sunday due to concussion protocol, but didn’t miss a beat against the Wings, leading both teams in scoring with 25 points, four rebounds and eight assists.

🚨 FINAL SCORES AND TOP PERFORMERS 🚨 Rhyne Howard had the hot hand in the @atlantadream 's dub at home! 🎯 25 PTS | 8 AST | 4 STL #WNBASeason30 pic. twitter.

com/y2HLUThbBC — WNBA (@WNBA) May 23, 2026 In the postgame press conference, Howard joined two-time All-Star Angel Reese to answer questions about their performance. After getting through the typical game-day questions and discussing their mindset throughout different moments of the matchup, the pair couldn’t hold back a few jokes when reporter Jameelah Johnson asked if they had developed team nicknames for each other. Howard remarked that they didn’t have nicknames established yet.

“Karl (Smesko) calls her Rhy Time,” Reese answered while gesturing to Howard with a smirk and eye roll. She then paused for a second to think before continuing. “Actually, your nickname is Permission.