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Top Plays of the Day, 5/16/2025

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Game Recap: Dream vs. Mystics (5/16/25)

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New York may seem poised to do it again. To have Breanna Stewart sing along to “Empire State of Mind” on the Canyon of Heroes in Lower Manhattan again. For Big Ellie to somehow do an even bigger one. To repeat as champions.
But the Aces will have something to say. A’ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray will absolutely be heard from. Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride, proven to be unrivaled in their offensive and defensive abilities, will also make sure the Lynx have a word after last year’s ending. Caitlin Clark, following a record-breaking rookie campaign, has some new faces alongside her who aren’t afraid to speak up in the championship conversation, too.
And don’t sleep on Seattle.
The WNBA unveiled its 2025 schedule this week, comprised of over 200 games. With the addition of the Golden State Valkyries, each team will play 44 games, up from 40. Fans can now circle the must-watch games. And they may run out of ink.
The W’s 29th regular season tips off Friday, May 16 and will conclude September 11, undaunted by an Olympic Break this year. The Commissioner Cup presented by Coinbase and WNBA All-Star will reclaim their usual places in the calendar.
Here’s a glimpse of what fans can expect:
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<h2>Rehashed Rivalries</h2>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-196272" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames.png" alt="#22 A'ja Wilson of the LAs Vegas Aces stands with #30 Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Some matchups just never get old, and 2025 will see plenty of familiar foes battling it out once again.
Las Vegas Aces vs. New York Liberty &#8211; Saturday, May 17, 1pm ET on ABC
Matchups &#8211; May 17, July 8, August 13
The Aces entered 2024 looking to three-peat until the Liberty changed their trajectory. New York beat them 3-1 in the regular season and the 2024 semi-finals, avenging their 2023 Finals loss and clearing the path to their first franchise championship. This marquee match-up features three-time WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, two-time MVP Breanna Stewart, and 2021 MVP and 2024 Finals MVP Jonquel Jones. The duel also welcomed championship-caliber stars in Natasha Cloud joining the Liberty and six-time All-Star Jewell Loyd joining the Las Vegas Aces.
Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever &#8211; Saturday, May 17, 3pm ET on ABC
Matchups &#8211; June 7, July 27, August 9, September 5
Lucky for us, the collegiate rivalry between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese–two of the biggest stars in basketball–remained thrilling on the pro level. Three of the four games between Clark’s Fever and Reese’s Sky were decided by a combined 10 points. Popcorn-worthy basketball. Clark’s only challenge to her Rookie of the Year honor was double-double machine Angel Reese, who led the league in rebounding. The Fever picked up veteran All-Stars DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard. The Sky reunited with Liberty champion Courtney Vandersloot, who brought Chicago a title in 2021, and added Washington’s recent leading scorer, Ariel Atkins.
New York Liberty vs. Minnesota Lynx &#8211; Wednesday, July 30, 8pm ET on ESPN
Matchups &#8211; July 30, August 10, August 16, August 19
The Liberty and Lynx gave us the most-watched WNBA Finals in 25 years. Both teams are returning all their starters. Collier, the reigning DPOY, and the Lynx are looking for vengeance after an epic and heartbreaking five-game series against the Liberty. But revenge will be tough to accomplish with clutch Sabrina Ionescu paired up with defensive specialist Cloud in the backcourt.
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Blockbuster Moves
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-196273" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames1.png" alt="#25 Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury poses at her introductory press conference" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames1.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames1-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The 2025 offseason featured seismic shifts in player movement and created some can’t-miss showdowns.
Los Angeles Sparks at Las Vegas Aces &#8211; Friday, May 30, 10pm ET on ION
Remaining Matchups &#8211; June 11, July 29, September 11th
Aces’ fan favorite Kelsey Plum, who won two titles with the Aces, is now in LA after a three-team trade sending Seattle’s Loyd to Vegas. Plum, alongside another Ace-turned-Spark in Dearica Hamby, leads what could be an explosive offense — with Rickea Jackson and Rae Burrell — in an emotional return to Michelob Ultra Arena.
Phoenix Mercury at Indiana Fever – Wednesday, July 30th, 7pm ET on ESPN3
Remaining Matchups &#8211; August 7, September 2
Fiancés face off when Phoenix visits Indiana. Triple-double queen Alyssa Thomas leads the Mercury against the Fever and her spouse-to-be DeWanna Bonner. The couple led Connecticut to the 2022 WNBA Finals together.  The last time Bonner and Thomas played against each other was during the 2024 All-Star Game, where Bonner and Team WNBA defeated Thomas and Team USA. Be prepared for extra spiciness in this one.
Las Vegas Aces at Seattle Storm – Sunday, May 25, 6pm ET on <a href="https://www.wnba.com/webview/leaguepass">League Pass</a>
Remaining Matchups &#8211; June 1, June 2, August 8
A lackluster season by the stacked Storm led to Loyd, the 2023 Scoring Champ and three-time All-WNBA guard, asking to be traded after 10 years and two championships in Seattle. You just know Loyd will want to cook her old team. But you also know her former teammate and now rival Skylar Diggins-Smith, one of the most competitive guards in the league, will want anything but.
New York Liberty at Phoenix Mercury – Friday, June 27th, 10pm ET on ION
Remaining Matchups &#8211; June 19, July 25, August 30
Cloud was only with Phoenix for one season before getting traded to the Liberty, but her expectation was to<a href="https://x.com/DesertWaveCo/status/1888042256478917000"> retire a Mercury</a>. She even helped recruit Dallas star Satou Sabally to the Valley — only to be part of the trade to get Sabally. The Mercury are entering a new era. Diana Taurasi retired and Brittney Griner signed with Atlanta. Sabally, Thomas and Kahleah Copper lead the revolution in Phoenix.
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First Looks
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-196274" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames2.png" alt="a Golden State Valkyries jersey on display during the 2025 Expansion Draft" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames2.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames2-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/03/25KeyGames2-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The 2025 season also offers fans a chance to witness players and teams making fresh starts.
Minnesota Lynx at Dallas Wings – Sunday, Friday, May 16th, 7:30pm ET
Dallas’ No. 1 overall pick will presumably make her pro debut in Minnesota. The last time the Lynx faced the top pick, they let Clark score 25 points. This will also be a glimpse at lockdown defender DiJonai Carrington and All-Star MVP Arike Ogunbowale together in Dallas’ backcourt.
Los Angeles Sparks at Golden State Valkyries – Friday, May 16th, 10pm ET on ION
The Valkyries punctuate Opening Night in a hype debut of the league’s first expansion team in 17 years. Golden State — led by Tiffany Hayes, the 2024 Sixth Woman of the Year, and No. 1 expansion pick Kate Martin — take on a Sparks squad anchored by the 2024 2nd overall pick, Cameron Brink. Brink was in top consideration for Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year before her ACL tear, being the league’s second-best shotblocker.
Connecticut Sun at Atlanta Dream – Sunday, May 25th, 3pm ET on <a href="https://www.wnba.com/webview/leaguepass">League Pass</a>
Watch out for the big girls. Catch some of the W’s best posts in their new uniforms with 12-year Phoenix veteran Griner and eight-year Connecticut anchor Brionna Jones suiting up for the Dream against Tina Charles and the Sun. Jones will face her former team, while nine-time All-WNBA Charles rejoins the team that drafted her 17 seasons ago.
This is just a taste of what the WNBA season will offer. With rivalries reigniting, new faces in new places (including seven new head coaches across the league), and increased national broadcast visibility, the 2025 WNBA season is set to be as unprecedented as it is entertaining. Get to circling, WNBA fans–you won’t want to miss a second of the action!
WNBA reporter Zena Keita writes columns on <a class="editor-rtfLink" href="http://wnba.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WNBA.com</a> throughout the season. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its teams.

key-games-2025

Save The Date: Key Games for the 2025 Season

Shock, surprised, aghast— to say the very least! A wild few weeks have probably led to your favorite team receiving a facelift during the 2025 Free Agency period. Superstars were traded, draft picks were dealt, and new contenders emerged. Now that the dust has settled, let’s break down the teams that won free agency. 
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<h2>Phoenix Mercury </h2>
IN: Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Sami Whitcomb, Kalani Brown, Sevgi Uzun
OUT: Brittney Griner (ATL), Natasha Cloud (CON), Sophie Cunningham (IND)
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-195788" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/PHXFA.png" alt="Satou Sabally in Phoenix Mercury jersey with Kahleah Copper" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/PHXFA.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/PHXFA-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/PHXFA-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The Mercury lost free agent Brittney Griner, the franchise’s two-way cornerstone for the past 11 seasons. Still, they gained an engine in Alyssa Thomas and a unicorn in Satou Sabally to pair with their Olympian Kahleah Copper. They gain solid offense and become a nightmare defensive line-up. Phoenix couldn’t bring back 2014 Mercury champion DeWanna Bonner but instead cashed in on a veteran sharpshooter, Sami Whitcomb. Where they may lack depth, the collective W experience and sheer competitiveness make up for it. 
<h2>Indiana Fever</h2>
IN: Kelsey Mitchell, DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, Sophie Cunningham
OUT: Grace Berger (MIN), Katie Lou Samuelson 
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-195789" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/INDFA.png" alt="DeWanna Bonner, Aliyah Boston, Lexie Hull and Caitlin Clark sitting courtside at an Indiana Pacers game" width="960" height="720" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/INDFA.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/INDFA-300x225.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/INDFA-768x576.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
The Fever would’ve been on this list even if they just retained Kelsey Mitchell, but they were able to create a monster starting lineup. With the free-agent signings of DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard, they’re long, can shoot, and can defend. Howard, a former Defensive Player of the Year (2019), brings the defensive grit to Indiana’s forward spot, something they desperately needed. Last season, the Fever finished 11th in Defensive Rating and heavily relied on out-scoring teams rather than getting stops. Now, with Clark, Mitchell, Bonner, Howard, and Boston, they have both. Scary!
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<h2>Atlanta Dream</h2>
IN: Brittney Griner, Brionna Jones, Shatori Walker-Kimbrough
OUT: Cheyenne Parker-Tyus (LVA)
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-195790" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/ATLFA.png" alt="Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner at their introductory press conference" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/ATLFA.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/ATLFA-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/ATLFA-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
I believe any team that won the BG free-agency sweepstakes would be a winner, and the Dream added two centers to help defend inside. Last season, Atlanta gave up the second-most points in the paint at 34.0 ppg. No way is that going to happen again with Griner and Jones. But I’m most curious how two traditional bigs will fit with the offense of Dream’s new head coach, Karl Smesko. During his 20+ years at Florida Gulf Coast, he didn’t allow mid-range jumpers, only three-pointers and layups. Is Griner going to be shooting more threes this season? She did take and make the most three-pointers of her career in 2024 (9-18). Or will they leave that to Jordin Canada, Rhyne Howard, and Allisha Gray? Either way, Griner <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFZDzSpNiP4/">looked extremely happy</a> with her new team when she announced her signing on Instagram. The best part? They didn’t have to lose anything to sign these two powerhouses. Atlanta is going to be fun to watch. 
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<h2>Las Vegas Aces</h2>
IN: Jewell Loyd, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Tiffany Mitchell, Dana Evans
OUT: Kelsey Plum (LAS), Sydney Colson (IND), Tiffany Hayes (GSV), Alysha Clark (SEA)
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-195791 size-full" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/LVAFA.png" alt="A'ja Wilson and Jewell Loyd following a matchup during the 2024 season" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/LVAFA.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/LVAFA-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/LVAFA-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
Coach Becky Hammon warned us there would be changes after the Aces lost to the Liberty in the Semi-Finals. “We have to really take a sharp look at ourselves, look ourselves in the mirror, see our shortcomings, and then&#8230; make the moves necessary, whatever that means, to put the best product that we possibly can,&#8221; she said in October. The Aces constructed a historic blockbuster trade of former number-one picks. In a three-team trade, they shipped Kelsey Plum to Los Angeles, received Jewell Loyd from Seattle, and the Storm nabbed the 2025 number two overall pick from the Sparks.
With Plum being traded, it marks the end of an era for the back-to-back champion Aces. Plum was an integral part of Hammon’s slice-and-dice offensive scheme. But, the Sparks got the piece they needed. Her career 40% 3-point shooting average and ball handling skills positioned next to the fiery young backcourt of Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson is a perfect match. 
In this situation, all three teams are winners, but the Aces got even better, in my opinion. Last season, Loyd averaged almost 20 ppg. Her craftiness and high-volume scoring will fit nicely next to A’ja Wilson’s dominance and Chelsea Gray’s passing. Four of the Aces’ new starting five just won Olympic gold together; the chemistry is already there. Plus, adding bigs Cheyenne Parker-Tyus and rookie Elizabeth Kitley, along with guards Tiffany Mitchell and Dana Evans coming off the bench, Las Vegas has the pieces to return to their championship-winning ways.  
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<h3>Dallas Wings</h3>
IN: DiJonai Carrington, Tyasha Harris, NaLyssa Smith, reserved rights of Mikiah Herbert Harrigan, No. 12 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and future pick swaps
OUT: Satou Sabally (PHX), Natasha Howard (IND), Kalani Brown (PHX), Sevgi Uzun (PHX), Jacy Sheldon (CON)
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-195792" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/DALFA1.png" alt="DiJonai Carrington guarding Arike Ogunbowale during a 2024 season matchup" width="960" height="640" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/DALFA1.png 960w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/DALFA1-300x200.png 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/DALFA1-768x512.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" />
New General Manager Curt Miller was able to hold on to the Wings’ number-one pick and acquire some competitive pieces in the process—that’s a win-win! It was obvious that Dallas, who finished 2024 with a dismal 9-31 record, needed to grab help for their star Arike Ogunbowale. They needed a point guard, who, if projections stay correct, will be incoming rookie Paige Beuckers and Ty Harris at backup. They needed defense (last season, the Wings finished dead-last in Defensive Rating); DiJonai Carrington checks that box. Their center, Teaira McCowan, needed some scoring help down low—enter NaLyssa Smith. It’s a new era in Dallas under head coach Chris Koclanes, and I’m excited to see how all these pieces fall into place.
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WNBA reporter Jordan Robinson writes columns on <a href="http://wnba.com/">WNBA.com</a> throughout the season and can be reached on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/heyjordanr?s=11&amp;amp;t=J-cOcDBZrcrt32m2C7gIVg">@HeyJordanR.</a> The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its teams.

2025-free-agency-winners

2025 Free Agency Winners

Last updated (6:00 pm 2/7/25) 
2025 WNBA Free Agency has electrified the league with a significant shuffling of players during the signing period. As the anticipation builds for the 2025 WNBA Draft and season tip-off, these star-studded movements are sparking conversations about what the upcoming season will look like.
We’ll examine the reported signings that have shaken up the league and which signings to watch as the Free Agency announcements continue. Let’s dive into the new Atlanta Dream frontcourt and the blockbuster three-team trade that made history, featuring two former first-overall picks.
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Brittney Griner 
2024 stats (30 games played) 
17.8 PPG 
6.6 RPG 
2.3 APG 
1.5 BPG 
 
Brittney Griner, a nine-time All-Star, WNBA Champion, and perennial All-Defense team member, is headed for the Atlanta Dream. This marks the first time in Griner’s WNBA career that she’ll be playing anywhere but Phoenix as she departs the Mercury for a new opportunity alongside fellow stars Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray. 
 
Griner automatically brings elite rim protection to Atlanta and provides a new pick-and-roll partner to Jordin Canada, Allisha Gray, and Rhyne Howard. While she’s not known for spacing the floor, she’s always willing to attempt an open three, and that’ll keep defenses honest while opening the floor up for Howard and Gray to operate. 
&nbsp;
Brionna Jones 
<a href="https://stats.wnba.com/player/1628280/">2024 stats</a> (40 games played) 
13.7 PPG 
5.5 RPG 
1.5 APG 
1.2 SPG
&nbsp;
Brionna Jones has also signed with the Atlanta Dream. Jones marks the second Center signed by the Dream ahead of the 2025 season as she joins fellow All-Star big Griner on the Dream frontcourt. 
We can see a trend brewing in Atlanta as Jones was an elite defender for the Connecticut Sun who will immediately improve the Dream&#8217;s interior defense, complimenting BG’s interior presence. While injuries had plagued her recently with the Sun, she’d been a consistent target for Alyssa Thomas’ post-passing and is a reliable scorer in the paint. 
The former Sixth Player of the Year and three-time All-Star looked like a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year in 2023, but her season was cut short to just 13 games due to a ruptured Achilles. 
Jones is likely to come off the bench in relief of Griner, which adds a versatile amount of depth to the Dream’s second unit. Adding her to the roster adds another target in the paint for Atlanta’s guards, as she’s excellent in the post as a scorer, and her defense versus opposing bench units will be felt. 
&nbsp;
Sparks, Aces, and Mercury Complete Blockbuster Deal:
The first colossal trade domino to fall this offseason was the three-team trade that sent Jewell Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces, Kelsey Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks, and Li Yueru to the Seattle Storm. The picks involved made this trade enticing for the Storm, as they landed the second overall pick in the 2025 draft in the deal. 
Loyd, a two-time WNBA champion with Seattle, former Rookie of the Year, scoring leader, and six-time All-Star, is an obvious plus to the Aces, who needed this sort of return for a Plum-caliber player. Plum, of course, also gets a fresh start to operate as the engine for the Sparks, who needed a veteran guard at the helm for Rickea Jackson and Cameron Brink. The two-time champion with Las Vegas and three-time All-Star brings ball handling and shooting to Los Angeles, taking pressure off of Jackson or Brink to carry the brunt of scoring. 
In addition to nabbing Yueru to add to their center depth, Seattle now has a lucrative pick to use or deal ahead of the WNBA draft. With the Storm now drafting second overall in this year’s draft, they’re in a gainful position to add a franchise cornerstone that can contribute immediately. The Storm might’ve lost a key face of their franchise, but they gained a perfect opportunity to add youth in a new era for their team by gaining this pick. 
 
Keeping an eye out: Other standout moves this offseason 
 
Nneka Ogwumike has yet to sign a new deal with the Seattle Storm this offseason, but there haven’t been any reports to suggest that she’ll sign with any other team. Ogwumike, a former league MVP (2016), a WNBA champion (2016), and nine-time All-Star, is a premier forward in the league. Her two-way play for Seattle last season was a perfect fit alongside center Ezi Magbegor, and her scoring in the post added a fun dimension to the Storm’s offense. She averaged 16.7 PPG and a career-high 1.9 SPG, 7.6 RPG, and 2.3 APG.  
Chennedy Carter is still an unrestricted free agent, and she’ll likely be looking for a new team, with the Sky signing Vandersloot as their point guard this coming season. Carter, who averaged career highs in points per game (17.5), steals per game (1.1), rebounds per game (3.5), and field goal percentage (49 percent), would be an excellent fit for any team like the 2024 Sky &#8211; young, trying to build a foundation, and in need of guard depth. 

WNBA reporter Candace Pedraza writes columns on <a href="http://wnba.com/">WNBA.com</a> throughout the season. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the WNBA or its teams.-

wnba-free-agency-2025-rapid-reactions-of-atlantas-fresh-frontcourt-and-three-team-blockbuster

WNBA Free Agency 2025: Rapid Reactions of Atlanta’s Fresh Frontcourt and Three-Team Blockbuster

<div class="elementToProof"></div>
<div class="elementToProof" style="text-align: center">Three-Time Olympic Gold Medalist, Ten-Time All-Star and WNBA Champion Joins Talented Dream Roster</div>
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<div>ATLANTA, Ga. (Feb. 1, 2025) – The Atlanta Dream have signed Brittney Griner, one of the most dominant and impactful players, on and off the court, in the history of the WNBA. The ten-time All-Star, three-time Olympic Gold Medalist and 2014 WNBA Champion adds elite talent, championship experience, and great character to the Dream’s roster.</div>
<div class="elementToProof">“Brittney is the perfect fit for this team, this organization and this city,” said General Manager Dan Padover. “She brings Hall of Fame talent, championship presence and leadership to our organization. This is a monumental moment for our franchise.”</div>
<div><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-195535" src="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw.jpg" alt="Brittney Griner &quot;Welcome&quot; graphic" width="1920" height="1080" srcset="https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw-300x169.jpg 300w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw-768x432.jpg 768w, https://cdn.wnba.com/sites/4/2025/02/Outlook-3mqcfndw-1536x864.jpg 1536w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></div>
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<div>Griner, a 6’9” center and the No. 1 overall pick by the Phoenix Mercury in the 2013 WNBA Draft, has redefined the center position over her 11-year tenure. With career averages of 17.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, she ranks 18th all-time in points scored and third in total blocks, with 812. A two-time WNBA scoring champion, her ability to dominate both ends of the floor earning her six All-WNBA Team cemented her legacy as one of the greatest players in league history. Griner played a pivotal role in the Mercury’s run to the 2014 WNBA Championship, where she earned Finals MVP honors.</div>
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<div>&#8220;Atlanta felt like home the moment I started thinking about this next chapter,&#8221; said Griner. &#8220;What led me here was the team, the players, and most importantly, my family. I’m excited to be part of this city, to connect with the community, and help elevate this team into championship contention.&#8221;</div>
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<div>Griner’s championship pedigree extends beyond the WNBA. She led her high school team to the Texas 5A championship her senior year before leading Baylor to a perfect season and National Championship in 2012. She has represented her country internationally in two World Cups (2014 and 2018) and three Olympic Games, bringing home Olympic Gold Medals in 2016, 2020 and 2024. Beyond her on-court achievements, Griner is also a vocal advocate for equality and inclusion, becoming one of the most prominent figures in sports.</div>
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<div>&#8220;Brittney is a Hall of Fame player who brings unmatched skill, productivity, and an incredible level of unselfishness to the court,&#8221; said Head Coach Karl Smesko. &#8220;Her leadership and selflessness will not only elevate our team but also enhance the chemistry and culture that we are cultivating.”</div>
<div></div>
<div>Griner joins a dynamic Atlanta Dream core featuring fellow Olympians Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, as well as 2x WNBA champion Jordin Canada. Howard and Gray are both two-time All-Stars, Canada is a 2 x All-Defensive First Team recipient and together with Griner, they form a formidable foundation for the Dream’s future.</div>
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Atlanta Dream Sign Brittney Griner in Historic Free Agent Acquisition

– Dream and Storm to Play in Third WNBA Canada Game on 
Friday, Aug. 15, 2025 –
– Fans can Register for Presale Ticket Access at <a href="http://www.wnbacanadagame.com">WNBACanadaGame.com</a> –
TORONTO, Dec. 16, 2024 – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) today announced that the third WNBA Canada Game will feature the Atlanta Dream and the Seattle Storm playing a regular-season game on Friday, August 15, 2025, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, B.C., marking the first regular-season WNBA game outside of the U.S.
The Dream’s 2024 campaign concluded with a second consecutive playoff appearance for the first time since 2013 and 2014.  Atlanta’s 2024 roster featured Rhyne Howard, the 2022 Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year; Tina Charles, who ranks first and second, respectively, in WNBA history for rebounds and points; Allisha Gray, who last year became the first player in WNBA history to win both the Kia WNBA Skills Challenge and WNBA STARRY® 3-Point Contest at WNBA All-Star; and Mississauga, ON’s Laeticia Amihere.
The four-time WNBA champion Storm are coming off their 25th anniversary season and 19th playoff appearance.  The Storm’s 2024 roster featured WNBA Champion, 2016 Kia WNBA MVP and nine-time WNBA All-Star Nneka Ogwumike, two-time WNBA champion and six-time WNBA All-Star Jewell Loyd, and six-time WNBA All-Star Skylar Diggins-Smith.
The Dream participated in the first preseason WNBA game in Europe when they defeated the Great Britain Women’s National Team in Manchester, England in 2011. The Storm took part in the second WNBA Canada Game in May 2024 when they defeated the Los Angeles Sparks in Edmonton, AB.
Ticket information, broadcast details and the start time of the game will be announced in the coming months.  Fans can register to be notified of presale ticket access at <a href="http://www.wnbacanadagame.com">WNBACanadaGame.com</a>.
Following the sold-out 2023 and 2024 WNBA Canada Games held in Toronto and Edmonton, respectively, the 2025 game will mark the fifth WNBA game to be played outside of the U.S. following the previous games in Canada, England and Monterrey, Mexico (2004). This year the WNBA set records for digital consumption and merchandise sales in 2024 and had its most-viewed WNBA playoffs presented by Google in 25 years.  2024 WNBA viewership in Canada was up 175% compared to the 2023 season, and the league also set new highs in Canada across digital platforms including WNBA League Pass and social media.
In 2023, the WNBA announced that the Golden State Valkyries will join the league for the 2025 season as the league’s 13th franchise.  In 2024, Toronto and Portland were granted the 14th and 15th franchises, respectively, both of which will begin play in the 2026 season.
For more information, fans in Canada can follow the NBA on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/NBACanada">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/nbacanada">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@nbacanada?">TikTok</a> and <a href="http://www.twitter.com/nbacanada">X</a> and the WNBA on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/wnba">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wnba/">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@wnba?lang=en">TikTok</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/wnba">X</a>.  Official WNBA merchandise is available at the NBA/WNBA Store in Canada at <a href="https://www.nbastore.ca/en/">NBAStore.ca</a>.
 
Executive Quotes:
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert: 
“The WNBA Canada Game has been a tremendous opportunity to grow our league’s footprint, and we look forward to hosting the first-ever international regular season game with the Seattle Storm’s return to Canada to face the Atlanta Dream.  As we prepare to establish permanent roots in Canada with a Toronto franchise, this game and our year-round engagement efforts are a nod to the incredible momentum around women’s basketball in Canada.”
Atlanta Dream President and COO Morgan Shaw Parker: 
“This is a monumental moment for the WNBA, and we are honored that the league chose the Dream to participate in the first regular-season game outside the U.S.  We look forward to showcasing our amazing athletes on a global stage in Vancouver. Members of our team have competed internationally, and now they will be doing so wearing Dream colors and representing the city of Atlanta.”
Seattle Storm CEO and Team President Alisha Valavanis: 
“The WNBA Canada Game is an opportunity to showcase the WNBA and its talent to more fans. The Storm is honored to be a part of this international celebration of basketball.  Playing in front of fans in Edmonton in 2024 was a highlight of the season and we’re looking forward to bringing the Storm energy back to Canada in 2025.”
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Atlanta Dream and Seattle Storm To Play First Regular-Season WNBA Game Outside The U.S. In Vancouver, B.C.

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ATLANTA (November 13, 2024) – The Atlanta Dream hired Karl Smesko as the team’s new Head Coach, the organization announced today.
With the third highest winning percentage (.843) among active coaches in NCAA Division I (DI) women’s basketball history (behind only Geno Auriemma and Kim Mulkey), Smesko brings over two decades of head coaching experience to the Atlanta Dream. His 672 total wins ranks eighth overall among active head coaches.
“Karl is a proven leader with a history of developing his players and creating a winning culture,” said General Manager Dan Padover. “His fast-paced, innovative style of play will be attractive to our players and fans alike.  We are excited to have Karl bring his incredible basketball IQ to the Dream.”
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Off the court, Smesko’s impact ripples throughout the basketball universe, particularly as it relates to developing coaches.  Currently, 22 of his former players have entered the coaching ranks &#8211; including three on the current Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) staff &#8211; and three of his former assistant coaches are now head coaches at the collegiate level.
“This is an exciting moment for our fans, the city of Atlanta, and the entire Dream organization,” said Atlanta Dream Majority Owner, Larry Gottesdiener.  “A great basketball mind is coming to our city. Karl’s passion for and commitment to women’s basketball bring out the best in everyone around him. I am confident we have found the right leader to take our organization to the next level.”
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A native of Bath, Ohio, Smesko created and built the FGCU women’s basketball program from the ground up.  During his 23 years as the Head Coach, Smesko’s teams have compiled a remarkable overall record of 611-110 (.8.47).  His teams have won 14 Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) regular season titles, 11 ASUN tournament championships, and progressed to the NCAA tournament 10 times.  Smesko has led FGCU to 25-wins in 14 straight seasons, an accomplishment only matched by UConn.
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“I am humbled and honored to be the head coach of the Atlanta Dream,” said Karl Smesko. “I am grateful for a remarkable 23 years at FGCU and will be forever indebted to the amazing women who have played for me, the incredible professionals who have coached with me, and the passionate fanbase who supported us along the way. I’m thankful to the leadership of the Atlanta Dream for their faith in me to lead this organization into the future and can’t wait to get started.”
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The Atlanta Dream will host a press conference introducing Karl Smesko as the franchise’s new head coach, accompanied by General Manager Dan Padover, early next week with details to follow.
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