The number of WNBA franchises without a coach is decreasing. ESPN reports the appointment of Karl Smesko at the head of the Atlanta Dream. With Florida Gulf Coast, the technician had become a major technician in the women's university championship.
The coach made the small university of FGCU a team accustomed to the “March Madness” with an impressive record of 611 victories for 112 defeats, or nearly 85% of victories, during the 23 years where he was the first and , until now, the only coach of the women's team at the establishment.
“ This possibility in the WNBA had intrigued me for a long time. When this opportunity presented itself, it seemed like it was the right place and the right time. I had some great conversations with the GM and the owners. It's the right decision for me today », Testifies Karl Smesko.
A modern style of play
His work had attracted the attention of many major colleges in the university championship, but also other WNBA teams, who have tried to hire Karl Smesko in recent years.
“ Karl is a proven leader in developing his players and creating a winning culture. Her fast and innovative style of play will appeal to our players and supporters. We're excited to have Karl bring his incredible tactical intelligence to the Dream “, enthuses Dan Padover, the GM of the franchise.
The new arrival will have the mission of raising the bar, within a team which remains on two eliminations in a row in the first round of the playoffs and has not finished with a positive record since 2018.
“ I'm not afraid of challenges. Things are set up for great things to happen in Atlanta and if we make good decisions along the way and continue to improve, anything is possible. I wouldn't go to Atlanta if I thought a WNBA title was unrealistic », Warns Karl Smesko, who takes over from Tanisha Wright, who was fired last month.
After his recruitment, that of Stephanie White in Indiana and Ty Marsh in Chicago, coaching positions remain to be filled in Washington, Dallas, Los Angeles and Connecticut.
