WNBA: Why the Atlanta Dream must sign shooters in free agency

January 11, 2025

in WNBA

Reading Time: 2 mins read

At Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), where Karl Smesko coached since 2002, players were not categorized as guards, forwards, or centers. All were labeled as shooters on the team roster.

The Atlanta Dream, who ranked ninth in 3-point attempts per game and 11th in 3-point percentage in the 2024 season, are not currently a team of shooters. The focus for the 2025 free agency period should be on building a squad of shooters for Atlanta.

The lack of outside shooting contributed to the struggles of the Dream’s offense in 2024. All-Stars Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray had limited space to operate, resulting in difficult shot attempts. While Smesko’s offensive strategies will help, the right roster composition is crucial for success.

To improve the offensive environment, the Dream front office should be open to making necessary moves, including not prioritizing current free agents or trading young players under contract. The league’s trend towards spacing-oriented offensive lineups means the Dream won’t be alone in seeking shooting talent.

Exploring options for acquiring shooters is crucial for Atlanta. The current state of the roster, finances, and three potential strategies for aligning the Dream with Smesko’s vision will be discussed.

Facts and figures*

Players under contract (contract status; 2025 salary)

Laeticia Amihere (unprotected; $79,999)
Jordin Canada (protected veteran; $190,000)
Nia Coffey (protected veteran; $150,000)
Allisha Gray (protected veteran; $190,000)
Naz Hillmon (protected rookie scale; $80,823)
Rhyne Howard (protected rookie scale; $91,981)
Haley Jones (unprotected; $79,999)

Free agent (type; 2024 salary)

Maya Caldwell (reserved; $36,841)
Tina Charles (unrestricted; $130,000)
Lorela Cubaj (reserved; $64,154)
Cheyenne Parker-Tyus (unrestricted; $200,000)
Aerial Powers (unrestricted; $155,000)

Total salary of free agents: $585,995

Total team salary: $862,802

Cap space: $644,298

Unsigned draftees (2025 salary)

Nyadiew Puoch ($71,753)
Isobel Borlase ($68,595)
Matilde Villa ($65,438)

2025 WNBA Draft picks (2025 salary)

Round 2, No. 18 ($69,267)
Round 3, No. 36 ($66,079)

1. Call the best shooters on the market—if they’re out there

Could Alysha Clark be an answer in Atlanta?

The class of 2025 unrestricted free agents lacks elite shooters, with Alysha Clark as a standout with a career 3-point percentage of 38.3%. Her accuracy and volume make her a desirable target for Atlanta to create space for the offensive initiators.

Atlanta should also explore options for acquiring stretch bigs, particularly targeting Satou Sabally and Natasha Howard from Dallas, who have expressed interest in leaving the Wings.