The Atlanta Dream have made headlines by signing two prominent WNBA players: three-time All-Star Brionna Jones and ten-time All-Star Brittney Griner. This marks the Dream's second major free-agent acquisition of the offseason following Griner's agreement to join the team on January 29, 2025.
Jones, who spent her entire career with the Connecticut Sun, entered free agency as an unrestricted free agent after the Sun couldn’t extend their core designation to her after applying it to others. During her time at the Sun, Jones became integral to their roster, averaging 13.7 points per game and 5.5 rebounds during the 2024 season. Her agent Boris Lelchitski confirmed the signing to ESPN, highlighting her impressive track record, including winning the 2021 Most Improved Player award and the 2022 Sixth Player of the Year award.
These acquisitions come at a time when the Atlanta Dream are rebuilding under newly appointed head coach Karl Smesko. The Dream, seeking to progress past their recent playoff exits, have not won a playoff game since 2018. By adding Griner and Jones to their roster, the team hopes to create a more powerful frontcourt. Griner, at 34, has been notable for her significant contributions, averaging 17.8 points and 6.6 rebounds last season with the Mercury.
Griner expressed her excitement about the transition, stating, "Free agency has been everything I wanted it to be, honestly. I was able to find where I wanted to go. What led me to [signing with Atlanta] was the team, the players. Also my family. I’m thrilled for this chapter." Her signing is not only seen as pivotal for the Dream but also symbolizes her resilience and determination after facing significant personal challenges recently.
Jones’ signing is set to bring depth and experience to Atlanta's roster. Known for her strong rebounding and defensive skills inside the paint, she complements Griner's style of play perfectly. Jones averaged her career-best 53.8 field goal percentage last year and has consistently been recognized as one of the top defensive players. Her experience, having reached the semifinals with the Sun for six consecutive seasons, will be invaluable as the Dream aim to build on their ambitions for success.
With these strategic moves, the Dream aim not just to be competitive but to maintain relevance among the WNBA’s elite teams. They are banking on Jones and Griner’s proven talents to help steer the team toward more successful campaigns. The current roster includes young stars like 2022 No. 1 overall pick Rhyne Howard and other impactful players like Allisha Gray and Jordin Canada, providing a strong mix of youth and veteran leadership.
The changes aren’t just affecting the Dream; the Connecticut Sun is also undergoing significant shifts. With Jones' departure and the potential movement of fellow All-Star Alyssa Thomas to the Phoenix Mercury, the Sun are at a roster crossroads. They have relied heavily on their current roster but are falling short against more dynamic teams.
The excitement surrounding the Dream is palpable as they prepare for the upcoming season, with many anticipating how Griner and Jones will blend together on the court. Fans are eager to see if the Atlanta Dream can finally break their playoff drought and achieve newfound success. Opening night on May 16 promises to be thrilling.