Atlanta Dream Hires Karl Smesko as New Head Coach

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Dream announced Wednesday the hiring of Karl Smesko as the team’s new head coach, bringing one of the most successful resumes in women’s college basketball to the WNBA. Smesko, who built Florida Gulf Coast University into a mid-major powerhouse, replaces Tanisha Wright, who was let go in October after three seasons with the Dream.

Smesko leaves FGCU with the third-highest winning percentage among active NCAA Division I women’s coaches at .843, trailing only Geno Auriemma and Kim Mulkey. His 672 career wins rank him eighth among active coaches. Known for his innovative, fast-paced style, Smesko has led FGCU to 14 ASUN regular-season titles and 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, fostering a culture of success and development that has sent dozens of his former players and assistants into the coaching ranks.

“I am humbled and honored to be the head coach of the Atlanta Dream,” Smesko said. “I’m thankful to the leadership of the Dream for their faith in me to lead this organization into the future and can’t wait to get started.”

General Manager Dan Padover praised Smesko’s impressive track record, citing his winning mentality and ability to develop talent. “Karl is a proven leader with a history of creating a winning culture. His style of play will be attractive to our players and fans alike,” Padover said.

Smesko steps into a franchise eager to elevate its standing in the WNBA, with expectations that his experience will foster the Dream’s competitive edge. A press conference introducing Smesko will be held next week in Atlanta.