Patience, trades and 1 bold bet: How the Atlanta Dream finally broke through to the WNBA Finals

Atlanta Dream general manager Dan Padover has guided the team to its first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013, through strategic trades, fortunate breaks, and patient ownership. After taking the helm in 2021, Padover focused on assembling a strong roster through trades, rather than relying on free agency. Key acquisitions included drafting Rhyne Howard and Naz Hillmon, signing Allisha Gray, and signing Jordin Canada.

The final piece of the puzzle was securing Angel Reese and DeWanna Bonner, both of whom were instrumental in the team's success. Coach Karl Smesko, who led the team to a WNBA Finals appearance in his second season, was hired to carry on the team's tradition of excellence.