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Brittney Griner’s Former Teammate Breaks Silence After Upsetting News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated May 15, 2025 12:13 PM ET

Brittney Griner will begin another chapter in her eventful career as she tries to help the Atlanta Dream out of their slumber and go on a deep run in the upcoming season.

In the offseason, Griner signed a one-year deal with the Dream worth nearly $215,000, according to Spotrac . She had played for the Phoenix Mercury since being drafted as the top overall pick in 2013.

Another new face that could aid Atlanta is Brionna Jones. She also joined the team in the offseason after spending eight seasons with the Connecticut Sun. She agreed to a similar contract with Griner, according to Spotrac.

Griner and Jones have a combined 13 All-Star appearances, and they are expected to play big roles for first-year coach Karl Smesko.

While their additions are a welcome development, the team also had to let go of some players for its opening day roster. On Wednesday, the Dream waived Haley Jones.

The 23-year-old guard expressed her gratitude to Atlanta but also didn't hide her disappointment over her unfortunate situation.

"Thank you Dream for the last two seasons," wrote Haley Jones on X. "I’m grateful for all of the relationships I have built and getting to play in front of the Atlanta crowd!

"With that, while I’m disappointed, I’m not discouraged. I’m more motivated than ever and excited for what’s next."

Thank you Dream for the last 2 seasons. I’m grateful for all of the relationships I have built and getting to play in front of the Atlanta crowd! With that, while I’m disappointed, I’m not discouraged. I’m more motivated than ever and excited for what’s next.
— haley jones (@haleyjoness13) May 15, 2025

The Dream drafted her as the sixth overall pick in 2023 out of Stanford. She had marginal playing time in her short stint with the squad, averaging 3.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 16.2 minutes per game.

Atlanta also waived Shyanne Sellers in finalizing its opening day lineup.

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

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