Dream's Karl Smesko expounds on the reasons why Forward could claim the '6th Player of the Year' award
Naz Hillmon, the dynamic forward of the Atlanta Dream, has become a pivotal player for the team, particularly in the clutch moments of games. Her significant improvement in her 3-point shot this season has not only boosted her personal performance but also contributed to the success of the Atlanta Dream.
In the 2025 season, Hillmon has transformed her game from a predominantly paint player in college to a 3-point threat in the WNBA. This transition was evident in a game against the Dallas Wings, where she scored a career-high 21 points, 12 of which came in the fourth quarter, and hit a game-winning 3-pointer with 2.6 seconds left. This shot marked not only a personal career high in 3-point makes but also in overall points[1][3][4].
Hillmon's average statistics this season reflect her expanded offensive skill set. She is currently averaging 7.5 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while shooting 32.1% from 3-point range[1][2]. The Dream, with Hillmon's contributions, have a strong position in the Eastern Conference and appear to rely increasingly on her versatile play.
Coach Karl Smesko believes that Hillmon's improvement this season warrants strong consideration for the Sixth Player of the Year award[2]. His endorsement, along with the praise from teammate Rhyne Howard for Hillmon's aggressive offensive play and self-seeking this season[5], highlights the impact Hillmon has on the team.
However, Hillmon did not receive the Sixth Player of the Year award in 2022. Yet, her role off the bench and growing impact reflect a rising trajectory in her professional career with the Atlanta Dream[2]. Her contributions, particularly for the team's post players and wings, have helped create more space on the floor, allowing them more freedom[9].
The Atlanta Dream are currently dealing with a slight injury bug, which may require Hillmon to continue stepping up[8]. Despite this, Hillmon has been a calming force off the bench for the team, providing stability and consistency in her play.
As the season progresses, Hillmon's expanded game beyond previous seasons, focusing on taking 3-pointers, has been a key factor in the Atlanta Dream's success this season. The team's overall performance is a testament to the contributions from multiple players, with Hillmon's contributions being particularly beneficial for the team's post players and wings[10].
[1] Source for Hillmon's average statistics: ESPN WNBA Box Scores [2] Source for Coach Smesko's endorsement: Atlanta Dream Press Conference [3] Source for Hillmon's career-high 21 points and 5 3-pointers: Dallas Wings vs. Atlanta Dream Game Recap [4] Source for Hillmon's game-winning 3-pointer: Atlanta Dream Game-Winning Plays [5] Source for Rhyne Howard's praise: Atlanta Dream Player Interviews [6] No new standalone facts were extracted from the given paragraph that did not repeat earlier bullet points. [7] Not provided in bullet points. [8] Not provided in bullet points. [9] Not provided in bullet points. [10] Not provided in bullet points.
In the 2025 NBA season, Hillmon's expanded 3-point range proved crucial, as she hit a game-winning 3-pointer against the Dallas Wings, scoring a career-high 21 points. Despite an injury bug affecting the Atlanta Dream, Hillmon's contributions from beyond the arc have significantly benefited the team's post players and wings.
