Atlanta Dream Adds Three New Talents in WNBA Draft

The Dream selected a record-setting center, a playmaking guard, and a defensive specialist in the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:52am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract WNBA basketball game, with sharp, overlapping shapes in the team colors of the Atlanta Dream and Las Vegas Aces, conveying the energy and intensity of the upcoming matchup.The Atlanta Dream's new draft picks bring a dynamic mix of talent and potential to the team as they prepare to take on the reigning WNBA champions.Atlanta Today

The Atlanta Dream added three new players to their roster through the 2026 WNBA Draft. Their first pick was 6'6" center Madina Okot, followed by guard Indya Nivar from the University of North Carolina, and guard Kejia Ran from CBA Beijing. The Dream are looking to these new talents to complement their recent acquisition of superstar Angel Reese as they prepare to take on the reigning WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces in their season opener.

Why it matters

The Dream are hoping these three new draft picks will help bolster their roster and provide a boost as they look to challenge the league's elite teams. Okot, Nivar, and Ran all bring unique skillsets that could make an immediate impact, and their additions come at an exciting time for the franchise with the arrival of Reese.

The details

With the 13th overall pick, the Dream selected 6'6" center Madina Okot, a record-setting player from the University of South Carolina. Okot, who grew up in Kenya playing volleyball before taking up basketball at 16, ranks third in the country in double-doubles and second in South Carolina history for offensive rebounds. With the 28th pick, the Dream chose guard Indya Nivar from the University of North Carolina, who is only the fourth player in ACC history to record a triple-double featuring steals. In the 48th overall spot, the Dream selected guard Kejia Ran from CBA Beijing, who is known for her defensive versatility.

  • The 2026 WNBA Draft took place on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • The Dream will open their season at home on May 17, 2026 against the reigning WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces.

The players

Madina Okot

A 6'6" center from the University of South Carolina, Okot is a record-setting player who ranks third in the country in double-doubles and second in South Carolina history for offensive rebounds.

Indya Nivar

A guard from the University of North Carolina, Nivar is only the fourth player in ACC history to record a triple-double featuring steals.

Kejia Ran

A guard from CBA Beijing, Ran is known for her defensive versatility and was selected by the Dream in the 48th overall spot of the 2026 WNBA Draft.

Angel Reese

A superstar player who the Dream recently acquired and will be joining the team.

Brittney Griner

The veteran center who is reportedly finalizing a seven-figure deal with the Connecticut Sun.

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What they’re saying

“I couldn't be more excited (about Okot). We were really hopeful and maybe a bit pessimistic that she would be available. Her ability to crash the boards and the way she moves defensively, I think she'll be a good addition.”

— Karl Smesko, Dream Head Coach

“We like Nivar's ability to make plays and her knack for the ball. She's aggressive, attacks downhill and is not afraid of conflict. She is high energy and gets a ton of steals. We're excited that she was available and looking forward to seeing her compete in training camp.”

— Karl Smesko, Dream Head Coach

What’s next

The Dream will open their season at home on May 17, 2026 against the reigning WNBA champion Las Vegas Aces.

The takeaway

The Atlanta Dream have added three talented young players through the 2026 WNBA Draft to complement their recent acquisition of superstar Angel Reese. These new additions, including a record-setting center, a playmaking guard, and a defensive specialist, give the Dream an infusion of youth and versatility as they look to challenge the league's elite teams in the upcoming season.