The Atlanta Dream made another major splash in WNBA free agency, signing three-time All-Star Brionna Jones. This move comes shortly after securing 10-time All-Star Brittney Griner, reinforcing Atlanta’s frontcourt with size, skill, and veteran experience.
Jones, a 6-foot-3 forward, had spent her entire career with the Connecticut Sun, where she played a crucial role in their postseason consistency. She was instrumental in leading the Sun to six consecutive semifinal appearances and earned the 2021 Most Improved Player and 2022 Sixth Player of the Year awards. After recovering from an Achilles injury that cut her 2023 season short, Jones bounced back in 2024 with averages of 13.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
Her arrival in Atlanta signals the franchise’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team. Alongside Griner, 2022 No. 1 overall pick Rhyne Howard, two-time All-Defensive selection Jordin Canada, and former lottery pick Allisha Gray, the Dream now boast one of the most balanced rosters in the league. With new head coach Karl Smesko taking the helm, Atlanta is looking to move beyond back-to-back first-round playoff exits.
Meanwhile, Jones’ departure from Connecticut signifies a major shift for the Sun. The franchise is set to trade All-Star Alyssa Thomas to the Phoenix Mercury in a blockbuster deal, and veteran DeWanna Bonner could also be on the move. This marks a potential rebuilding phase for the Sun, who have been a perennial contender in recent years.
For the Dream, the addition of Jones and Griner provides a formidable inside presence, making them a dangerous playoff threat. However, their ultimate success will depend on chemistry, health, and Smesko’s ability to maximize the talent on this newly revamped roster. Atlanta has not won a playoff game since 2018, but with these moves, they are positioning themselves as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.
