Atlanta Dream Hire Longtime Florida Gulf Coast Coach Karl Smesko as New Head Coach

The Atlanta Dream have announced the hiring of longtime Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) coach Karl Smesko as their new head coach. The decision was made public on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Smesko, who spent 23 years at FGCU, built the Eagles into a perennial NCAA Tournament team and boasts the third highest winning percentage (.829) in women’s college basketball.

During his tenure at FGCU, Smesko’s teams were renowned for their exceptional 3-point shooting. The Eagles set the NCAA record with 431 three-pointers in the 2018 season and have knocked down 300 or more 3-pointers in 15 consecutive seasons. His fast-paced and innovative style of play is expected to be a significant asset for the Dream.

Dream General Manager Dan Padover expressed enthusiasm about the hire, stating, “Karl is a proven leader with a history of developing his players and creating a winning culture. His fast-paced, innovative style of play will be attractive to our players and fans alike. We are excited to have Karl bring his incredible basketball IQ to the Dream.”

The 54-year-old Smesko will join the franchise later this month. The Atlanta Dream had a challenging season, finishing with a 15-25 record and barely qualifying for the playoffs. Despite this, the team has a strong young core, including Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, along with veteran center Tina Charles. The Dream have not had a winning record since the 2018 season.

The hiring of Smesko follows the firing of former coach Tanisha Wright last month after the team’s early exit from the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Smesko’s appointment is part of a broader coaching shake-up in the WNBA, with several teams filling their coaching vacancies this offseason.

Dream owner Larry Gottesdiener welcomed Smesko, saying, “This is an exciting moment for our fans, the city of Atlanta, and the entire Dream organization. A great basketball mind is coming to our city. Karl’s passion for and commitment to women’s basketball bring out the best in everyone around him. I am confident we have found the right leader to take our organization to the next level.”