Atlanta Dream Kick-Start Season Strong with Eye on Improvement
Dream's 2025 WNBA debut under tough scrutiny, as coach Karl Smesko offers stark assessment
The Atlanta Dream is sailing high at 6-3, securing the second spot in the Eastern Conference behind the unbeaten New York Liberty. They've notched up five wins in their last six games, and with their health in check, head coach Karl Smesko is eager to discover the team's true potential.
Smesko acknowledges the team is still learning the ropes as they strive for a cohesive identity. He yearns for a time when the team understands their playing style, allowing them to focus on developing game plans for opposing teams.
"We're in a learning stage," Smesko admitted ahead of the match against Indiana Fever. "We're figuring out who Atlanta is. It's only been a month, and we've got a lot of new players working together. But we do want to see progress over the next couple of weeks."
Offensively, the Dream has shown promise, ranking second in points scored per game. Defensively, their perimeter defenders have been causing chaos for opposing backcourts.
The Fine-Tuning Fortnight
Following a week off, the Dream faced the Connecticut Sun, providing an opportunity to work on areas needing improvement. Smesko pointed out two critical aspects that needed refinement: offensive spacing and reducing opponents' opportunites to attack the rim.
Jordin Canada's Return
The break also offered a chance for Jordin Canada's return, which should alleviate pressure on Rhyne Howard, who's been shouldering multiple responsibilities for the Dream.
"Jordin will allow Rhy to shift to her comfort zone, where she can be off the ball and on occasion, reclaim the primary playmaker role," Smesko explained.
As the season progresses, the Dream looks set to refine their performance on both ends of the floor.
Enrichment Data
A Deeper Look: As Karl Smesko continues to guide the Atlanta Dream, several key areas require attention to enhance both offensive efficiency and defense:
Offensive Spacing
- Integration of Frontcourt and Perimeter Players: With Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner joining the squad, Smesko faces the challenge of seamlessly integrating these powerful frontcourt players into his perimeter-oriented style. This may involve crafting new player placement strategies and revamping ball movement to optimize long-range shooting opportunities.
- Player Adaptation: The Dream's offense leans heavily on outside shooting, but the current roster lacks renowned 3-point acumen. Smesko will need to tailor his strategy to maximize the skills of versatile players like Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, who excel in multiple facets but are not prolific 3-point scorers.
- Efficiency and Turnover Reduction: Smesko emphasizes precise offensive play, including minimizing turnovers. To tighten up in this area, the Dream will need to improve control over the ball and decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations.
Defense
- Defensive Consistency: While Smesko's defensive tactics are not thoroughly described, his emphasis on fundamentals and player commitment suggests he aims to instill consistent defense. This entails ensuring the team fully understands and executes defensive schemes effectively.
- Adaptability: Smesko's philosophy often involves adjusting strategies to suit different opponents and situations. This adaptability will be essential for the Dream's defense, where versatility is crucial to counter various opponents' strengths and weaknesses.
The Atlanta Dream aims to refine their offensive spacing, particularly integration of frontcourt and perimeter players, as well as reducing turnovers during high-pressure situations, in order to optimize long-range shooting opportunities and improve overall offensive efficiency.
Defensively, the Dream is focusing on improving defensive consistency and adaptability, ensuring the team understands and executes defensive schemes effectively, while also adjusting strategies to counter opponents' strengths and weaknesses.
