Tossing the Old, Bringing in the New: Atlanta Dream's Roster Shakeup
Farewell message from Rhyne Howard, former 1st-round pick, upon being released from Dream team
As the WNBA season gears up, teams are trimming their rosters, and Atlanta Dream is no exception. One of the recently waived players is none other than Haley Jones, a former first-round pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft.
Drafted by the Dream in the first round with the No. 6 pick, Jones' career with the team has been a rollercoaster ride for the past two seasons. With the arrival of new head coach Karl Smesko, it seemed that Jones' style didn't align with the new coach's vision for the team. A day after her release, Jones shared her sentiments publicly.
"Atlanta Dream, thank you for the last 2 seasons. I'm grateful for the friendships I've built and the chance to play in front of the Atlanta crowd! Don't get me wrong, I'm damn disappointed, but I'm not discouraged. I'm more fired up than ever and ready for what lies ahead," Jones penned on X, formerly Twitter.
Rhyne Howard, Jones' former teammate, chimed in, praising their bond.
"I'm grateful for the friendship that we've forged. It started way back, but these past two years only made it stronger [emoji] I know I don't express it enough, but I love you and I'm proud of you [emoji] You've always got a big sister in me.. just don't forget about me when it's time to bake," Howard wrote.
Now that the roster has been cut to the required number of players, the Dream will open their season on the road against the Washington Mystics on May 16.
Taking a Fresh Start
The Dream's lineup might look different this season, following some changes during the offseason. Besides the hire of Smesko, they signed Brittney Griner, Brionna Jones, and Shatori Kimbrough-Walker, who are expected to make significant contributions to the team.
Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray will continue to be key players, and the Dream's success hinges on their performance. With starter Jordin Canada out due to an injury during preseason, bench players will need to step up in her absence.
One exciting player to watch is Te-Hina Paopao, who demonstrated during preseason that she can be versatile, effective on both offense and defense. This depth should serve Atlanta Dream well in the coming season.
Haley Jones, after parting ways with the Dream, seems to have her sights set on new horizons. While her immediate professional basketball future remains uncertain, her passion and motivation are ignited more than ever. Her next moves are eagerly awaited by fans and teammates alike.
"Haley Jones, despite being recently waived by the Atlanta Dream, might find her next opportunity in the upcoming sports playoffs, with her passion and motivation at an all-time high after her recent release."
"Meanwhile, in the WNBA basketball draft of 2023, the Atlanta Dream selected Te-Hina Paopao, who is set to showcase her versatility and potential contributions to the team this season."
