Dream Bolster Basketball Operations and Performance Staff with Strategic Hires and Promotions

The Atlanta Dream have made a series of impactful enhancements to their basketball operations and performance staff, signaling a deep commitment to player health, development, and innovation. These strategic moves underscore the franchise’s vision of building a world-class infrastructure to support on-court success and long-term athlete well-being.

Strengthening Medical and Performance Leadership

At the forefront of these changes is the promotion of Katie Buria to Head Athletic Trainer. Buria, who joined the Dream in 2019, has been a vital presence in the team’s medical operations, specializing in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and performance training. With prior experience at Arkansas State and Texas A&M, she brings a wealth of knowledge, holding certifications in strength training, movement science, and manual therapy. Her leadership will ensure continuity and excellence in athlete care.

Joining Buria is Taylor Javey, hired as Assistant Athletic Trainer. Javey arrives from Overtime Elite, where she played a key role in supporting elite-level high school and pre-professional athletes. She also brings experience from the Austin Spurs, the NBA G League affiliate of the San Antonio Spurs, where she managed injury assessments, rehabilitation, and game-day medical coverage. With a master’s degree in Athletic Training and a bachelor’s in Kinesiology from Youngstown State, Javey adds depth and a science-driven approach to the Dream’s medical team.

Elevating Physical Performance and Data Integration

To lead the team’s strength and conditioning efforts, the Dream have hired Shannon Jackson as Strength and Conditioning Coach. Jackson previously directed performance training for Georgia Tech’s women’s basketball team and has held roles at Jackson State and Alabama State. Her expertise in sport-specific training, injury prevention, and speed development will be pivotal in maintaining player performance throughout the season.

Parker Sizemore has been named Data Analyst and Performance Coordinator, expanding her responsibilities after serving as an intern. Specializing in sports science and performance analytics, Sizemore utilizes GPS tracking, force plate testing, and other technologies to assess player workload and recovery. With previous experience at Mississippi State and Texas, her analytical acumen ensures the Dream are optimizing every aspect of player performance.

“Investing in our medical and performance staff is ultimately an investment in our players,” said General Manager Dan Padover. “Katie has already been instrumental in shaping our approach to player health. Expanding her role allows us to further prioritize athlete care. Adding Taylor strengthens our ability to deliver personalized support, Shannon will ensure physical readiness, and Parker’s data expertise will elevate our performance strategies.”

Innovative Operations and Coaching Support

In the realm of basketball operations, Sydney Durrah has been promoted to Senior Manager of Basketball Systems and Player Content Operations. With prior roles at Georgia Tech and Ohio State as a video coordinator and content director, Durrah brings a blend of technical and creative experience. Her ability to integrate film analysis, scouting support, and multimedia storytelling plays a crucial role in both player development and fan engagement.

Additionally, the Dream have added Sheahen Dowling as Special Assistant to the Head Coach. Dowling reunites with Head Coach Karl Smesko, having played under him at Florida Gulf Coast University before joining his coaching staff. Her deep understanding of Smesko’s system, combined with her sharp basketball mind and attention to detail, makes her an ideal addition to the Dream’s coaching operations.

“Having the right people around this team is essential to our success,” said Smesko. “Sydney’s ability to merge technology with game planning is a game-changer, and Sheahen’s basketball intelligence and familiarity with our system will be invaluable. We are building a staff that’s intelligent, versatile, and wholly committed to elevating this team.”

A Unified Vision for Success

With these strategic appointments and promotions, the Atlanta Dream are reinforcing their culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. The organization’s emphasis on holistic athlete support and cutting-edge performance tools positions the team for sustainable success—both on and off the court.

As the Dream continue their evolution into one of the WNBA’s most forward-thinking franchises, these enhancements reflect a steadfast dedication to elevating every aspect of the player experience.