Success in the WNBA Draft Laid Foundation for the Atlanta Dream

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The Atlanta Dream made a franchise-changing move when they selected Rhyne Howard with the first overall pick selection in the 2022 WNBA Draft. Howard became Kentucky’s first WNBA Draft No.1 pick.

After finishing 8-24 last season and missing the playoffs four of the past five years, the organization has now added a player who has the potential to become a superstar in the WNBA.

Howard averaged 20.5 points and 7.4 rebounds her senior year, leading Kentucky in points, rebounds, steals, and blocks.

“I am ready to keep improving,” said Howard. “I want to be a part of a winning team.”

There’s no doubt that the Dream is on the right track to rebuilding its franchise.

“The most important thing is to compete every night. We want to put a product on the court that the city of Atlanta is proud of,” said general manager Dan Padover.

It was thought that the Dream had a long way to go before they would be trending in the right direction. Now, it looks as if Atlanta has quickly added an assortment of young talent that can push the team forward quicker than most might have expected.

The Dream also drafted Naz Hillmon, the most decorated player in Michigan women’s basketball program history. Hillmon was drafted No.15 overall.

“Nas is a steal of this draft,” said head coach Tanisha Wright. “She’s a hard worker.”

The Dream is under a new coaching staff and they’re excited about their future. Says Wright, “My expectation is for us to go out every day and compete. Our focus is getting better every time we step on the court.”