Brittney Griner Leaving Atlanta Dream After One Season

ESPN reports the WNBA star will sign with the Connecticut Sun.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a WNBA basketball game, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in navy, red, and yellow representing the competitive action on the court.Griner's departure from the Dream exposes the challenges of integrating star players into new systems, as the team's most successful season in years ends with an unexpected roster shakeup.Atlanta Today

ESPN has reported that WNBA center Brittney Griner will leave the Atlanta Dream after just one season with the team. Griner, who spent her entire career with the Phoenix Mercury prior to joining the Dream last offseason, signed a seven-figure deal to play for the Connecticut Sun starting next season.

Why it matters

Griner's departure is a significant loss for the Dream, who had their most successful season in years with a 30-14 record. However, the move aligns with Griner's hometown roots, as the Sun are set to relocate to Houston in 2027.

The details

Griner's per-game averages of 9.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists and 1.2 blocks were all career lows, as the 6-foot-9 center's playing style did not mesh well with the Dream's offensive system under head coach Karl Smesko.

  • Griner signed with the Dream last offseason after playing her entire WNBA career with the Phoenix Mercury.
  • The Dream's 30-14 record in the 2026 season set a franchise record for wins.

The players

Brittney Griner

A 35-year-old WNBA center who spent her entire career with the Phoenix Mercury before joining the Atlanta Dream last season.

Karl Smesko

The head coach of the Atlanta Dream, whose offensive system did not mesh well with Griner's playing style.

Connecticut Sun

The WNBA team that Griner has signed a seven-figure deal with, set to relocate to Houston in 2027.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Griner's departure from the Dream highlights the challenges of integrating star players into new systems, even for a team that had its most successful season in years. The move also represents a homecoming for the Houston native as the Sun prepare to relocate to her hometown in the near future.