The Atlanta Dream are rolling into D.C. for one final tune-up before the real show begins. And yes, Brittney Griner is likely suiting up.
After all the offseason chatter, roster shake-ups, and new coaching vibes, Griner’s preseason debut with Atlanta is locked in. The 11:30 a.m. ET showdown against the Washington Mystics isn’t just a warmup — it’s a preview of what’s to come when these two go at it again in the season opener. Buckle up.
Brittney Griner Gears Up for Preseason Debut for Atlanta Dream
After all the anticipation and a huge offseason splash, Atlanta might finally put Griner on the floor in Dream threads. The 6-foot-9 All-Star center is expected to log minutes in today’s preseason game against the Washington Mystics, giving fans a first look at the revamped Atlanta core.
The Dream went big this offseason (literally and figuratively). Along with Griner, the team brought in Brionna Jones and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, adding serious depth and playoff experience to an already promising squad.
Griner joining forces with Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray is a dangerous combo. And now, with former Florida Gulf Coast University coach Karl Smesko at the helm, this Dream squad feels anything but dreamy. They look legit.
Griner, who dealt with injury last season, is reportedly healthy and ready to go. The matchup with Washington might not have standings on the line, but for Atlanta, it’s all about chemistry. Getting those pick-and-roll reps, feeling out spacing, building that court rhythm — it all starts now.
Mystics Rebuild Faces Early Test Against Loaded Atlanta Roster
Washington, meanwhile, has been through the wringer. The Mystics saw 10 players leave during the offseason, giving the squad a new look and identity heading into the 2025 season.
Head coach Eric Thibault’s group dropped its preseason opener in overtime to Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, and now the Mystics are up against a Dream team stacked with firepower.
That first game showed some growing pains. Injuries have also left Washington a bit thin heading into today’s contest. While Shakira Austin continues working her way back into shape, the Mystics are counting on younger players to step up.
The good news is that it’s just preseason. However, Atlanta’s not easing into anything.
The Dream are treating this like a statement game, especially with Griner officially back on the court. And with how tight things were between these two squads last season, the Mystics might be in for a long morning.
Expect a fast pace, hard fouls, and a little extra juice from both benches. Even in preseason, something about Atlanta vs. Washington just feels like it matters. And with Griner in the lineup? Yeah, this one’s got “must watch” written all over it.