Atlanta Dream Hire Karl Smesko As Next Head Coach
Atlanta Dream Announce New Head Coach
The Atlanta Dream have hired Karl Smesko as their new head coach, the team announced Monday. Smesko, who has been an assistant coach with the Dream since 2021, replaces Tanisha Wright, who was fired in September after two seasons.
Smesko, 54, has been an assistant coach in the WNBA for 15 seasons, including stints with the Tulsa Shock, Minnesota Lynx, and Phoenix Mercury. He also served as the head coach of the Polish national team from 2018 to 2021.
Smesko Brings Experience and Success to Atlanta
Smesko is a highly respected coach with a proven track record of success. He has helped lead the Dream to the playoffs in each of the past two seasons and was named the WNBA's Assistant Coach of the Year in 2021.
Smesko is also known for his innovative offensive schemes and his ability to develop young players. He is expected to bring a new level of excitement and energy to the Dream, who are looking to return to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013.
Dream Excited for New Era Under Smesko
The Dream are excited to have Smesko as their new head coach. They believe that he is the right person to lead the team to the next level.
"Karl is a proven winner with a wealth of experience," Dream general manager Dan Padover said. "He is a great tactician and a great motivator, and we are confident that he can help us achieve our goals."
Smesko is excited to get started with the Dream. He is looking forward to working with the players and helping them reach their full potential.
"I am honored to be the head coach of the Atlanta Dream," Smesko said. "This is a great organization with a lot of potential, and I am excited to be a part of it."