NFL
By: Nick Andre
There’s a saying that a player must become a “star in their role”. It doesn’t mean that they have to be the best player or the most popular on the team. But they understand what they can provide to help their team succeed. Naz Hillmon of the Atlanta Dream has been the definition of that. Her importance to the team has played a huge role in why the franchise has continued to elevate through the years.
The Dream knew exactly what they were getting when they drafted Hillmon in 2022. During her college career at Michigan, she was a gifted all-around player who displayed a combination of scoring, defense, rebounding, etc. Because of her hard work on the floor, Hillmon was a multiple-time All-Big Ten First Team member as well as winning Freshman of the Year as well.
Since Hillmon has played in Atlanta, she’s fit in like a glove. She’s shown to be the perfect complement next to star players like Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, and others. Hillmon’s game can be described to many as a “tweener” meaning she can play multiple positions and do a Millie of things to get the job done.
Defensively is where Hillmon has continued to make her mark. She’s very physical against her assignment and has tremendous mobility to not get blown by easily. During the 2023 season, The Dream ranked top six in Defensive Rating and held opponents to 84 points per game. It was certainly an upgrade compared to the previous few years. Hillmon has played a huge role in Atlanta’s elevation on defense. No, they’re not the perfect defensive team but she does a terrific job of setting the tone when she’s on the floor.
Hillmon has continued her impact to begin the 2024 season. She hasn’t had big scoring performances but has continued to make plays that don’t show up in the stat sheet. Offensively, Hillmon is doing a great job of running the floor, finding openings to cut to the rim, as well as showing her ability to step outside and knock down perimeter shots. She’s also done a terrific job as a screener by opening opportunities for scorers. In the Dream’s two wins this season, Hillmon has shown her high IQ and how valuable she is playing next to her teammates.
The Atlanta Dream’s journey continues as they take on the Washington Mystics on Wednesday night. The expectations for this team continue to be playoff contention. Although the Dream’s record is 2-2 through four games, they have plenty of time to find their rhythm as a collective. Naz Hillmon will continue to be an important factor for Atlanta. As she continues to ascend, the Dream will continue to do so as well.
