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2h ago

Atlanta’s Dan Padover Wins Record Third WNBA Executive of the Year

GM voters recognized a roster-coaching overhaul that lifted the Dream to their best regular season before a first-round exit.

Aug 10, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Dream guard Jordin Canada (3) celebrates a three pointer against the Phoenix Mercury in the second half at PHX Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Padover was selected by a 14-GM panel, receiving eight first-place votes and appearing on 12 ballots, with Golden State’s Ohemaa Nyanin second and Phoenix’s Nick U’Ren third.
  • The honor follows Atlanta doubling its 2024 win total and earning the No. 3 playoff seed in what the team called its most successful regular season.
  • Padover’s hire of Karl Smesko drove a leap in offensive efficiency from last in 2024 to second in 2025.
  • Roster moves included signing All-Stars Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner and drafting Te-Hina Paopao, who ranked fifth among rookies in win shares.
  • Atlanta was upset by Indiana in the opening round after logging its first playoff win in seven seasons, with key offseason calls ahead on restricted free agents Rhyne Howard and Naz Hillmon and potential core designation for Allisha Gray.