Atlanta Dream’s Red-Hot Offense Proves This Isn’t Last Year’s Team

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ryan White | Last updated Jun 21, 2025 1:52 PM ET

The Atlanta Dream is a much different team than last season.

Posting a 9-4 record, they are on pace to significantly improve on their 15-25 record a year ago.

All five starters showed out, with Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, Brittney Griner, Brionna Jones, and Jordin Canada all scoring in double figures during their most recent 92-91 thrilling victory against the Washington Mystics yesterday, showcasing their new talent.

Despite Shakira Austin’s career-high 25 points, Atlanta held off Washington during a tight contest that was competitive until the end. The Dream has scored over 90 points four times through 13 games, something they reached just three times all last season.

All 5 starters scored in double figures tonight for @AtlantaDream, who held off Washington 92-91 despite Shakira Austin’s career-high 25 points. Dream have scored 90+ points 4 times through 13 games. They reached 90+ just three times all last season.
— Michael Voepel (@MAVoepel) June 21, 2025

The Dream struggled last season, however, they snuck into the playoffs as an 8 seed. It’s an impressive achievement considering they finished last in offensive rating (96.6) and field goal percentage (40.8%).

The team looks completely different through 13 games and a lot of that credit needs to go to newly hired head coach Karl Smesko. He’s known for running a three-point heavy and Atlanta’s pace and shooting is evidence of that, with the squad averaging 10.2 threes made (2nd in WNBA) and 84.9 points per game (3rd in WNBA).

While Howard and Gray continue to be All-Star mainstays, the frontcourt has been strengthened by important signings like Griner and Jones. Those additions are being felt around the rim, giving Atlanta more of a defensive presence and they currently are grabbing the most rebounds in the league at 36.9.

Atlanta is clearly a different force in 2025. As it looks now, they are shaping out to be a real playoff contender that’s backed by elite shooting and rebounding.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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