NFL
The Atlanta Dream are kicking off the 2023 WNBA season on the road in a Saturday afternoon matchup against the Dallas Wings. With a new season ahead, the team wants to set the tone early with a win that could continue the momentum throughout the year. Looking at the Dream organization, there’s optimism that this team can potentially clinch a playoff seed at the end of this season.
During the 2022 campaign, the Dream missed the playoffs after finishing with a 14-22 record. It was a fresh new team filled with young talented players along with a new head coach. Despite having an under .500 record, the Dream finished the season top five in opponents points per game alongside being top five in Defensive rating. The numbers show that the team played with a competitive edge that allowed them to keep the contest close most nights.
Rhyne Howard was the driving force behind the Dream. There’s always pressure for the number one pick to deliver in star fashion. Howard took on the challenge as the number one option for the Dream. She averaged 16.2 points per game along with 4.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals. Howard’s size and fluidity makes her a matchup nightmare as she’s able to knock down perimeter shots while also attacking the rim. With that being said, her season resulted in her winning the Rookie of the Year award.
Joining alongside Howard this season include returning players like Aari McDonald, Cheyanne Parker, Monique Billings, Naz Hillmon, Nia Coffey, and others. However, there are new additions that will elevate the play of the Dream. They traded for Allisha Gray during the off-season while drafting talents like Haley Jones and Laeticia Amihere as well.
Going against the Dallas Wings will be a tough matchup for the Dream. However, these two teams played on opening night a year ago while the Dream walked out of Dallas with a 66-59 victory. However, the Wings have a chip on their shoulder heading into the season as well under new coaching alongside new additions to play next to Arike Ogunbowale. However, the team will be without new addition Diamond DeShields for significant time which could play a pivotal role in their season.
As the Dream look forward to their first game of the season, the team is prepared to make noise this season. They understand what went wrong last year and look to take what they learned and apply it to make a postseason run. In this first matchup against the Wings, expect Howard to set the tone on both ends. However, there could be an unsung hero for Atlanta who could step in and help lead the way to their first win of the season.
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