NFL
By: Nick Andre
There’s this term called “Father Time” that comes to an athlete around their mid- to late 30s. As players age, they’re not as athletic or fluid as they once were in their early careers. Luckily, athletes have shown that they can defeat Father Time. Just look at LeBron James, for example. Another player who has shown to have an edge is Tina Charles who has had a resurgence in her career this season.
It’s been a rollercoaster year for the Atlanta Dream. Between injuries, chemistry, issues, and inconsistency, the team has not exceeded expectations this season. The Dream were a team I predicated could’ve been top five in the league. Unfortunately, they’re currently fighting for the eighth seed with the Chicago Sky. Despite the ups and downs in Atlanta, the one consistent factor has been Charles and her effectiveness this season.
I’m sure many fans are not surprised with the production of Tina Charles this season. Well, there may be some that are. In 2022, Charles was a member of both the Phoenix Mercury and Seattle Storm. Although she had a few highlight moments with each team, she wasn’t the same effective player that WNBA fans have known her to be.
As a result, Charles sat out the entire 2023 season. It was unsure whether she would remain a free agent or consider retirement. While many believed Charles would call it quits, she was determined that she wasn’t done yet. With that being said, Charles used her year off as an opportunity to resurge herself and prepare for what’s ahead.
Luckily, going to Atlanta was the best decision for Tina Charles. They were a young team that was missing a veteran presence on the team. Considering the direction the Dream was going as contenders, it was only right that Charles was a great candidate to be an offseason signee. Charles’ close friendship with head coach Tanisha Wright also played a role in why she signed with the Dream.
Throughout this season, Tina Charles has shown that she’s still one of the best low post scorers in the WNBA. Her patience, footwork, and soft touch allow her to be a matchup nightmare most nights. Charles isn’t necessarily her prime self but often shows flashes of what she used to be. As the season has progressed, Charles has shown to be one of the top options for the Dream throughout the season.
As a veteran, Charles has been a valuable voice on and off the floor. The way she leads by example is incredible as she shows true professionalism on a nightly basis. Charles’ presence on the team has impacted the younger players on the Dream as they are still establishing themselves as players.
As the season has continued, Charles has been able to reach many milestones in her career. The highlight moment of the season is her game-winner against the Storm on August 16. In a contest against the Phoenix Mercury on August 21, Charles became the second All-Time leading scorer in WNBA history, surpassing Tina Thompson and only trailing Diana Taurasi. A few games later, she recorded a triple-double against the Storm, which is the first in franchise history. Charles has also recorded 14 double-doubles during the season.
Charles is averaging 14.8 points along with 9.2 rebounds on 47 percent shooting. She has 26 double-digit scoring performances as well as 14 games with 10+ rebounds. Highlight performances from Charles include scoring 21 points and grabbing 14 rebounds against the Los Angeles Sparks. Another one is scoring a season-high 28 points in a loss against the Indiana Fever.
With the season winding down, the Dream will need the continued production of Tina Charles. The Dream are finally healthy and are in the hunt for the eighth seed. However, teams like the Chicago Sky, Dallas Wings, and Washington Mystics are on the hunt for the spot as well. The Dream must end the season on the right note. Despite the ups and downs the team has faced, it’s great to know they have a chance to extend their season.
As for Charles, she’s proven that she’s not done yet. At 35 years of age, Charles shows that she hasn’t missed a beat and is continuing to show her presence on both ends. With eight games left in the season, expect Charles to continue her high-level play.
