NFL
There are plenty of reasons to believe that the Atlanta Dream are one of the WNBA’s top title contenders. One reason is the electric wing duo of Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, who continue to dominate offensively. Another reason is due to the new addition of Angel Reese, who continues to dominate the paint with her rebounding and defense. However, a big piece that puts the Dream in contention is the glue of the team, which is Naz Hillmon.
Many people can make a case that Hillmon isn’t one of the top three or four players on the Dream. This is understandable due to the talent that is placed on this roster. However, Hillmon provides things that other players on the Dream do not. She’s an exceptional high-IQ player who provides the fundamentals on both ends of the floor. Her effort and resiliency have played a big role in the Dream’s success over the past two seasons.
Truthfully, Hillmon doesn’t have to be the primary option for the Dream. Why is that? Because she’s better when she plays off of her teammates. As an off-ball player, Hillmon knows how to position herself to be effective. She knows that the defense will prioritize slowing down both Howard and Gray, who are two elite wing scorers. With that being said, Hillmon knows that it opens up easy looks for her offensively. She can play in pick-and-roll as she sets strong screens and rolls to the basket with a purpose. She is also a great cutter as she catches the defense ball watching and it opens up an easy look around the basket. Also, Hillmon is a great floor spacer as she makes the defense pay with her three-point shooting.
Since Naz Hillmon arrived in Atlanta, she’s shown to be an impactful player. She has always understood that her role in the second unit is crucial as she’s a tone-setter for multiple lineups. Last season, Hillmon displayed her best season as she averaged a career-high 8.6 points along with 6.2 rebounds. The numbers don’t define the entire story because Hillmon’s impact also showed off the stat sheet. It was the way she was able to make big plays on both ends. One moment that stood out was her game-winning three-pointer over the Dallas Wings to secure a huge road victory. As the Dream clinched the third seed in the playoff race, Hillmon was rewarded for her efforts as she won the Sixth Player of the Year trophy.
It was a successful season for the Atlanta Dream last season. They finished with the most wins in franchise history and looked as if they could contend for a title. Unfortunately, those hopes and dreams were put to bed as they were eliminated by the Indiana Fever in the first round. While many were happy for the Fever’s success, it also showed the flaws of the Dream as they were unable to close the series after winning game one.
When Hillmon re-signed with the team, she knew that her game had to elevate. As one of the leaders of the team, she took some blame for why the Dream weren’t able to capitalize in the playoffs. The Dream looked to approach the 2026 season with something to prove. They knew they had the talent to be a title contender. However, it was about bringing the pieces together to establish themselves as the best in the WNBA.
There have been big shoes to fill for Naz Hillmon to begin the season. The reason why is that the Dream are currently playing without their starting center, Brionna Jones, who is sidelined due to injury. Coach Smesko knows that he can trust his sixth woman to step into a new role. With that being said, Hillmon has continued to be effective playing in the starting lineup, which has played a role in the Dream’s 5-2 start to the season.
Yes, Hillman has continued to play well off her star teammates. However, what has stood out is the little details she provides that turn into big moments. One of them is rebounding as Hillmon has done a great job crashing the glass. Her strength and hustle allow her to control the paint and it creates extra opportunities for Atlanta. Also, Hillmon’s defense has been a difference maker as she continues to create turnovers. Hillmon’s efforts on both ends have made the game easier for others. As she does the dirty work, it has allowed her star teammates to shine in the process.
As the season progresses, the Atlanta Dream will look more dangerous. Right now, there’s a learning curve as they’re trying to create chemistry and help new teammates adapt to their new team. Hillmon will continue to be the glue that keeps the Dream in title contention. As of right now, she embraces her bigger role due to the absence of Jones and has been a great enforcer. As she later goes back to the bench, the energy will remain the same as she understands her impact on her team.
