Renee Montgomery is taking a break from basketball to focus on social justice. Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire

Dream's Renee Montgomery to skip WNBA season to focus on 'social justice reform'

By Blake Harper | Last updated 6/18/20

Atlanta Dream point guard Renee Montgomery announced on Twitter that she will not be joining the team for the 2020 WNBA season, as she will be focusing on 'social justice reform' instead.

"There's work to be done off the court in so many areas in our community," Montgomery said. "Social justice reform isn't going to happen overnight, but I do feel that now is the time and Moments equal Momentum. Let's keep it going!"

Since being drafted fourth in the 2009 draft, Montgomery has put together an impressive career in the WNBA, winning two championships with the Minnesota Lynx and averaging 9.7 points and 3.1 assists per game over 11 seasons. Dream coach Nicki Collen voiced her support for Montogomery's decision.

"While I am saddened Renee will not be in a Dream uniform this summer, I am incredibly proud of her passion for her foundation, her outreach in the community and her chance to impact the Black Lives Matter movement with her platform as a WNBA athlete," coach Collen said.

After much thought, I’ve decided to opt out of the 2020 WNBA season. There’s work to be done off the court in so many areas in our community. Social justice reform isn’t going to happen overnight but I do feel that now is the time and Moments equal Momentum. Lets keep it going!
— Renee Montgomery (@itsreneem_) June 18, 2020

Dream general manager and president Chris Sienko also addressed Montogomery's decision while offering his support.

"We are disappointed Renee will not be contributing on the court this season, but her assistance to the community is extremely significant and will help bring attention to important causes," Sienko said. "We fully support Renee's off-the-court efforts and know that she can help facilitate change in Atlanta and around the globe."

The WNBA season is set to start in July, with a 22-game season followed by playoffs that will end in October.

More must-reads: