The Atlanta Dream wrapped up their preseason with a loss to the Washington Mystics in a game that was not a strong outing overall, but still provided some insight into the team’s depth and development.
From the start, this was not the performance the Dream were looking for. Head coach Karl Smesko said postgame that the first unit did not play as well as he would have liked. He noted that the group is still working to get into a rhythm and that they are close to putting things together, but not quite there yet.
The numbers reflected that. Atlanta shot 22 of 58 from the field and struggled from three, going 6 of 29. Turnovers were also a major issue, with the team committing 21.
Smesko addressed that as well, explaining that several players who saw significant minutes had only been with the team for a few days. With that in mind, expecting high-level execution in a new system right away is not realistic. He emphasized that the group competed and tried to do things the right way, even if the results were not clean.
While the first unit struggled, the second unit provided some of the more encouraging moments.
Medina Okot was a clear bright spot.
She finished the game with nine points and six rebounds, and her presence was felt throughout. Okot played with physicality and held her own in a matchup against Lauren Betts. The two battled throughout the game, and Okot showed the ability to defend, alter shots, and contribute offensively in the post.
Smesko specifically pointed to her potential after the game, highlighting her ability to impact the game in multiple ways despite still learning. Okot also embraced the physical nature of the game, something the coaching staff has been emphasizing. When asked about it, she made it clear that she is comfortable with that style of play and enjoys it.
Taylor Thierry also stood out.
She knocked down two three-pointers and finished with seven points. During the game, the team’s reaction made it clear they believe in her shooting ability, as the bench was visibly anticipating her next attempts. Smesko noted that she competes defensively, creates deflections, rebounds well, and is a strong shooter. The focus now is encouraging her to consistently look for her shot.
Izzy Borlase did not have a big statistical game, but her unorthodox style was noticeable. She showed an ability to create space and operate in ways that are not always conventional, which could prove valuable within the system.
Maite Cazorla impressed with her control and movement.
Her ball handling stood out, and she moved fluidly throughout the game. Defensively, she navigated screens effectively and avoided some of the common issues guards face when adjusting to the pace and physicality at this level. Overall, she looked comfortable and composed on the court.
Another player to watch is Indya Nivar.
She has looked strong in training camp and in practice, but that production has not fully translated to game action yet. The flashes are there, and there is clear potential. The expectation is that her performance will continue to develop over time.
Naz Hillmon attempted a three-pointer in this game but did not convert. Still, there is an expectation that she will show improvement in that area as the season progresses.
Beyond the on-court play, the atmosphere was also a point of discussion. The crowd was lighter than expected for a preseason game, especially given the conversation around ticket sales. However, there is little concern long term, as regular season games are expected to draw significantly larger crowds.
Veteran Allisha Gray also provided context for how players are approaching preseason. She shared that her focus right now is on conditioning, getting into game shape, and working on specific aspects of her game like defense and shot selection. With limited minutes in the regular season no longer a factor, the goal is to be fully ready when games begin to count.
This was not a strong performance for the Dream.
But it was a useful one.
There are clear areas that need improvement, particularly with execution and turnovers. At the same time, the second unit showed effort, physicality, and potential.
Medina Okot’s performance stood out. Taylor Thierry showed confidence. Maite Cazorla looked composed. And there are players like Indya Nivar who are still developing into what they can be.
That is what preseason is about.
For Atlanta, the results were not there in this game, but the evaluation process is well underway as the team prepares for the regular season.
