The Atlanta Dream’s decision to waive guard/forward Haley Jones on May 14, 2025, sent ripples through the WNBA community, marking a significant step in the team’s roster overhaul for the upcoming season. Jones, a former Stanford star and the sixth overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, had been a rotational player for the Dream since her debut, but her tenure with the franchise ended abruptly as the team finalized its 12-player roster. This move, announced just days before the 2025 WNBA season tipped off on May 16, reflects broader changes under new head coach Karl Smesko and a revamped frontcourt featuring high-profile acquisitions like Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones. As the Dream aim to build a playoff-contending squad, the release of Jones underscores the competitive nature of WNBA roster decisions and the challenges young players face in securing a spot.
This roster cut was not an isolated decision but part of a series of strategic moves by the Dream to align with Smesko’s vision of a high-efficiency, three-point-heavy offense. The team’s offseason was marked by bold signings and a shift in coaching philosophy, with Smesko bringing his collegiate success from Florida Gulf Coast University to the professional stage. Jones’ departure, alongside other cuts like 2025 draft pick Shyanne Sellers, highlights the Dream’s focus on versatility and shooting, areas where Jones struggled to adapt. The announcement came after a preseason game against the Indiana Fever, where the Dream used 13 players but needed to trim their roster to meet the WNBA’s 12-player limit.
Key factors in the Dream’s roster decisions include:
- New coaching philosophy emphasizing three-point shooting and spacing.
- Addition of veteran stars like Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones.
- Limited roster spots, with only 12 players allowed per WNBA team.
- Performance evaluations from the 2025 preseason games.
As the WNBA season approaches, the Dream’s roster changes signal a new era for the franchise, with Jones now entering the waiver wire and potentially seeking opportunities with other teams. The move has sparked discussions among fans and analysts about the future of young talent in the league and the pressures of adapting to evolving team systems.
New coach, new vision
Karl Smesko’s arrival as head coach of the Atlanta Dream in 2025 marked a turning point for the franchise, which had posted a 15-25 record in the 2024 season under former coach Tanisha Wright. Known for his high-efficiency offenses at Florida Gulf Coast University, Smesko introduced a system that prioritizes three-point shooting, precise spacing, and quick decision-making. This shift in philosophy played a significant role in the decision to waive Haley Jones, whose skill set did not align seamlessly with the new approach. During the 2024 season, Jones averaged just 0.7 three-point attempts per game, with a shooting percentage of 21.4% from beyond the arc, making her a challenging fit for Smesko’s strategy.
Smesko’s track record in college basketball includes 22 consecutive 20-win seasons and nine NCAA Tournament appearances, achievements that raised expectations for his WNBA debut. His offensive system relies heavily on guards and forwards who can stretch the floor, creating opportunities for post players like Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones. Jones, despite her versatility as a ball-handler and rebounder, struggled to find a consistent role in this setup during the 2025 preseason, where her playing time peaked at 10 minutes per game. The Dream’s coaching staff prioritized players like 2025 draft picks Te-Hina Paopao and Taylor Thierry, who demonstrated stronger shooting and defensive capabilities.
The transition to Smesko’s system required tough decisions, particularly with the WNBA’s strict 12-player roster limit. Jones’ release was a pragmatic move to ensure the team could field a lineup optimized for the new coach’s vision. While her departure surprised some fans, given her status as a former first-round pick, it reflects the Dream’s commitment to building a cohesive unit capable of competing in the Eastern Conference.
Haley Jones’ journey with the Dream
Haley Jones joined the Atlanta Dream with high expectations after being selected sixth overall in the 2023 WNBA Draft. A Santa Cruz, California native, Jones had an illustrious college career at Stanford, where she led the Cardinal to the 2021 NCAA Championship and earned the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player award. Her resume also included three All-Pac-12 honors, three NCAA All-American selections, and a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie First Team in 2023. Despite these accolades, Jones faced challenges translating her college success to the professional level, particularly in a league that increasingly values perimeter shooting.
Over her two seasons with the Dream, Jones appeared in 80 games, starting 30, and averaged 3.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 16.2 minutes per game. In 2024, she played in all 40 games, starting 24, but her scoring efficiency remained a concern, with a field goal percentage of 39.7% and a three-point percentage of 21.4%. Her ability to facilitate and rebound was evident, but her limited range from beyond the arc restricted her impact in a league where spacing is critical. Fans on social media platforms praised her hustle and playmaking, with posts from 2023 highlighting her potential as a starting point guard, where she averaged 8.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in a brief stint.
Jones’ role as a rotational player never fully evolved into a starting position, and the arrival of Smesko’s system further complicated her fit with the team. Her versatility allowed her to play multiple positions, as she noted in a May 3, 2025, interview, where she expressed excitement about the freedom to play point guard, wing, or forward under Smesko. However, her preseason performance did not secure her a spot on the final roster, leading to her release on May 14, 2025.
Roster cuts and WNBA constraints
The Atlanta Dream’s decision to waive Haley Jones was part of a broader wave of roster cuts across the WNBA as teams finalized their lineups before the May 16, 2025, season start. The league’s 12-player roster limit forces teams to make difficult choices, often prioritizing veterans or players who fit specific tactical needs. In the Dream’s case, the team also waived 2025 draft pick Shyanne Sellers, a second-round selection from Maryland, just days earlier on May 12, after briefly signing her from the Golden State Valkyries’ waiver wire. These cuts ensured that both of the Dream’s 2025 draft picks, Te-Hina Paopao (second round, No. 18) and Taylor Thierry (third round, No. 36), made the final roster, a rare achievement for later-round selections.
The WNBA’s roster constraints create a highly competitive environment, with only 156 roster spots available across the league’s 13 teams. This scarcity often results in talented players, including first-round picks like Jones, being waived as teams prioritize immediate contributions over long-term development. The Dream’s final roster included established players like Jordin Canada, Rhyne Howard, and Allisha Gray, alongside newcomers Brittney Griner, Brionna Jones, and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough. The inclusion of Paopao and Thierry, who impressed in the preseason, further limited opportunities for Jones.
Key roster changes for the Dream in 2025 include:
- Signing of Brittney Griner, a 10-time All-Star and Olympic gold medalist.
- Addition of Brionna Jones, a two-time All-Star known for her versatility.
- Retention of core players like Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray.
- Inclusion of 2025 draft picks Te-Hina Paopao and Taylor Thierry.
- Release of Shyanne Sellers and Haley Jones to meet the 12-player limit.
These decisions reflect the Dream’s strategy to blend veteran leadership with young talent while adhering to the league’s strict roster regulations.
The Atlanta Dream have waived guard/forward Haley Jones. pic.twitter.com/8XWb4BcTQr
— Atlanta Dream (@AtlantaDream) May 14, 2025
Offseason transformations
The Atlanta Dream’s 2025 offseason was one of the most transformative in franchise history, setting the stage for the roster changes that culminated in Jones’ release. The team made headlines by signing Brittney Griner, a dominant center whose championship experience and defensive prowess are expected to anchor the frontcourt. Brionna Jones, a versatile forward with a knack for scoring, and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, a sharpshooting guard, further bolstered the roster. These acquisitions, announced at a February 4, 2025, press conference, were described by General Manager Dan Padover as a “home run” for the franchise, signaling Atlanta’s growing appeal to top-tier talent.
The hiring of Karl Smesko as head coach was another pivotal move, replacing Tanisha Wright, who led the Dream to a playoff appearance in 2024 but was let go after a 15-25 season. Smesko’s reputation for developing disciplined, high-scoring teams made him an attractive choice, but his system required players capable of executing a three-point-heavy game plan. The departure of veterans Tina Charles and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, combined with the addition of Griner and Jones, reshaped the Dream’s frontcourt, reducing the need for players like Haley Jones, whose mid-range and interior game did not align with the new strategy.
The Dream’s offseason moves also included retaining core players like Rhyne Howard, a former No. 1 overall pick, and Allisha Gray, a versatile wing. The team’s 2025 draft class, featuring Paopao and Thierry, added depth and shooting, further crowding the roster. These changes positioned the Dream as a potential contender in the Eastern Conference but necessitated tough cuts to comply with WNBA regulations.
Jones’ college legacy
Before entering the WNBA, Haley Jones established herself as one of the most decorated players in Stanford University’s history. Born in Santa Cruz, California, she attended Archbishop Mitty High School in San Jose, where she was named a McDonald’s All-American. At Stanford, Jones became a three-time Pac-12 champion and a three-time All-American, averaging 13.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game in her senior season. Her standout moment came in 2021, when she led Stanford to an NCAA Championship alongside teammate Cameron Brink, earning the Most Outstanding Player award for her performance in the tournament.
Jones’ college game was defined by her ability to handle the ball, facilitate plays, and dominate the boards, traits that made her a top prospect in the 2023 WNBA Draft. Her size (6’1”) and speed allowed her to play multiple positions, a versatility that initially appealed to the Dream. However, the transition to the WNBA exposed limitations in her shooting, particularly from three-point range, which became a liability in a league increasingly focused on perimeter play. Despite these challenges, Jones’ college achievements remain a testament to her talent and potential, which may attract interest from other WNBA teams or overseas leagues.
Challenges for young players
The waiver of Haley Jones highlights the broader challenges young players face in the WNBA, where roster spots are scarce and competition is fierce. With only 156 players league-wide, even first-round picks are not guaranteed long-term roles. Jones’ experience mirrors that of other recent cuts, such as Shyanne Sellers, Bree Hall, and Harmoni Turner, who were waived by their respective teams before the 2025 season. The lack of a developmental league, like the NBA’s G League, means that players who don’t make WNBA rosters often turn to international leagues in countries like China, Russia, or Turkey, where salaries can sometimes exceed those in the WNBA.
For Jones, the waiver wire presents an opportunity to be claimed by another team looking to fill a roster spot. Her versatility and playmaking ability could appeal to teams with different offensive systems, though her shooting deficiencies may limit her options. In 2023, Jones was praised for her potential as a point guard, with social media posts highlighting her 10-point, 9-assist performance against the Connecticut Sun. However, her inability to develop a reliable three-point shot over two seasons ultimately contributed to her release from the Dream.
Young players in the WNBA face several hurdles:
- Limited roster spots, with only 12 players per team.
- High expectations for immediate contributions, especially for first-round picks.
- Tactical shifts, as teams adopt systems that may not suit every player’s skill set.
- Competition from veterans and new draft classes each season.
These challenges underscore the need for adaptability and specialized skills, particularly in a league where three-point shooting has become a cornerstone of modern play.
Dream’s 2025 draft success
While the waiver of Haley Jones and Shyanne Sellers marked tough decisions, the Atlanta Dream’s 2025 draft class emerged as a bright spot. Second-round pick Te-Hina Paopao, selected 18th overall from South Carolina, and third-round pick Taylor Thierry, chosen 36th overall from Ohio State, both secured spots on the final roster. Paopao, an elite three-point shooter who developed under coach Dawn Staley, impressed in the preseason, including a standout performance against the Indiana Fever. Thierry, a dynamic wing, added defensive versatility and athleticism, aligning with Smesko’s system.
The success of Paopao and Thierry is notable given the low odds of second- and third-round picks making WNBA rosters. Their inclusion reflects the Dream’s scouting acumen and commitment to building around young talent that fits the new coaching philosophy. Paopao’s shooting ability, in particular, complements the team’s emphasis on spacing, while Thierry’s energy off the bench adds depth. The retention of both draft picks also highlights the Dream’s willingness to invest in players who can contribute immediately, even as they part ways with established names like Jones.
Preseason performance and roster decisions
The Atlanta Dream’s 2025 preseason provided critical insights into the team’s roster decisions, with the final game against the Indiana Fever serving as a key evaluation point. The Dream used 13 players in that matchup, exceeding the WNBA’s 12-player limit, which necessitated at least one cut. Haley Jones, who played just 10 minutes per game in the preseason, was outperformed by other guards and forwards, including Paopao and Thierry, who demonstrated stronger fits within Smesko’s system. The preseason also showcased the impact of new additions like Brittney Griner, who played limited minutes but showed promise as a defensive anchor.
Smesko’s system requires players to adapt quickly to a fast-paced, shooting-oriented style, and Jones’ limited three-point attempts and low shooting percentage made her a less viable option. The coaching staff also evaluated veterans like Jordin Canada and Allisha Gray, who are expected to lead the backcourt, and newcomers like Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, whose perimeter shooting adds depth. The decision to waive Jones was finalized on May 14, 2025, allowing the Dream to enter the regular season with a streamlined roster.
Potential next steps for Jones
Following her waiver from the Atlanta Dream, Haley Jones now faces an uncertain but opportunity-filled future. The WNBA’s waiver wire allows other teams to claim her within 48 hours, and her skills as a facilitator and rebounder could attract interest from franchises with different offensive needs. If unclaimed, Jones may explore opportunities in international leagues, where her size, versatility, and college pedigree could command significant playing time and higher salaries. Many WNBA players who don’t secure roster spots pursue careers abroad, often returning to the league later with improved skills.
Jones’ youth (23 years old) and experience (80 WNBA games) make her an appealing prospect for teams seeking depth or developmental talent. Her ability to play multiple positions, as highlighted in her May 3, 2025, comments about Smesko’s system, could appeal to coaches looking for flexible role players. However, improving her three-point shooting will be critical to securing a long-term WNBA role, given the league’s emphasis on perimeter play. Social media posts from fans expressed disappointment at her release but also optimism about her potential to rebound with another team.
Fan and media reactions
The announcement of Haley Jones’ waiver sparked a range of reactions from fans and media, with many expressing surprise given her status as a 2023 first-round pick. Social media platforms buzzed with posts mourning her departure, including a May 14, 2025, message from a Bay Area journalist highlighting her roots as a former Archbishop Mitty and Stanford star. Fans praised her hustle and playmaking, with some recalling her 2023 performances as a starting point guard, where she showcased her ability to impact games in multiple ways.
Media outlets described the move as part of a broader roster shakeup, with analysts noting the Dream’s shift toward a three-point-heavy system under Smesko. Some criticized the decision, arguing that Jones’ versatility warranted more time to develop, while others viewed it as a necessary step to align the roster with the new coach’s vision. The reactions underscored the emotional investment fans have in young players like Jones, as well as the harsh realities of WNBA roster limits.
Looking ahead for the Dream
As the Atlanta Dream prepare for their 2025 season opener on May 16, the team’s revamped roster and coaching staff have generated significant excitement. Brittney Griner’s presence in the paint, combined with Brionna Jones’ scoring and Rhyne Howard’s perimeter play, positions the Dream as a potential playoff contender. The inclusion of young talents like Te-Hina Paopao and Taylor Thierry adds depth and promise, while veterans like Jordin Canada and Allisha Gray provide leadership. Karl Smesko’s system, with its emphasis on shooting and spacing, will be tested early in a competitive Eastern Conference.
The Dream’s home opener against the Indiana Fever on May 22, 2025, at State Farm Arena offers fans a chance to see the new-look roster in action. The team’s offseason moves, including the waiver of Haley Jones, reflect a bold strategy to prioritize immediate competitiveness while investing in young talent. As the season unfolds, the Dream’s ability to integrate their star-studded frontcourt and adapt to Smesko’s system will determine their success in a league known for its parity and intensity.
