Atlanta Dream Returns to WNBA Finals Following Strategic Rebuild

Padover credited the team's ownership for their patience during the rebuild process. "A lot of times in sports, teams get broken up too early. Letting them grow together gives a continuity that is a huge competitive advantage," he said in a phone interview.

Padover joined the Dream in 2021 from the Las Vegas Aces and immediately focused on building the team through trades, as they did not have favorable lottery outcomes or many free agency opportunities. He noted, "That’s definitely the hardest way to build a franchise."

ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo commended Padover's efforts, highlighting key player acquisitions that were vital to the team's success. She mentioned that without star player Angel Reese, the Dream likely wouldn’t be in the finals and emphasized the importance of Padover’s vision in assembling the right roster at the right time.

Padover's first major acquisition was securing the No. 1 pick from Washington in 2022, allowing the team to draft Rhyne Howard, along with Naz Hillmon, who was selected later through another trade. "None of it gets off the ground without Rhyne and Naz," he remarked.

To strengthen the roster, Padover traded for Allisha Gray for two draft picks in the following season, creating a solid core alongside Howard and Hillmon. He praised Gray’s commitment to the Dream, stating, "She circled this as a place she wanted to go to."

Recognizing the need for a true point guard, Padover acquired Jordin Canada from Seattle in 2024. His most significant move came this past year when he brought Angel Reese to the team after a disappointing playoff showing against Indiana. Padover believed the Dream was a natural fit for Reese.

The final piece of the puzzle was signing DeWanna Bonner at the end of the regular season after her release from the Phoenix Mercury. Padover described this as a "mini-free agency" due to several teams pursuing her. He credited their history of interest in Bonner and her rapport with the players as key factors in securing her signing.

After the 2024 season, Padover decided to replace coach Tanisha Wright, who had led the team to consecutive playoff appearances. They hired Karl Smesko, a highly respected coach, who quickly made a significant impact by leading the team to the finals in his second year.

In the offseason, Padover faced the challenge of re-signing key players like Howard, Gray, and Canada within a tight timeframe due to the new collective bargaining agreement. In an impressive feat, he managed to lock up five players in just 48 hours, a process that usually takes much longer. He emphasized the importance of early relationship-building and showing players how valued they were to the organization.