Karl Smesko, who previously coached the Florida Gulf Coast women’s basketball team, has successfully transitioned to the WNBA as the head coach of the Atlanta Dream. During his time at FGCU, Smesko built the Eagles into a powerhouse, moving them from Division II to a leading Division I program. Under his leadership, FGCU consistently ranked among the top teams in the country, recording eight seasons with at least 30 wins and making ten NCAA tournament appearances, although he did not win a championship.
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Hoping to pursue a new challenge, Smesko accepted the head coaching position with the Atlanta Dream. His decision was timely, as he had largely maximized his accomplishments at FGCU. In his first two seasons with the Dream, Smesko achieved back-to-back 30-win seasons. After a first-round playoff exit last year, the Dream have made a strong comeback, sweeping their first two opponents in the 2026 postseason to reach the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013.
The finals will see Smesko's Dream face the Golden State Valkyries, who have a perfect record against Atlanta this season. Smesko voiced that the prospect of winning a championship in the WNBA seemed more feasible than at the college level, given the competitive balance. His focus has paid off as the Dream approach a championship series, now just four wins away from their goal.
Smesko is joined in the finals by Natalie Nakase, a fellow second-year coach leading the Valkyries. Notably, Dream star Angel Reese commended Smesko's coaching style and its positive impact on her career. After leaving FGCU, Smesko entrusted the program to long-time assistant Chelsea Lyles, who continued the winning tradition at the school.
Game 1 of the WNBA Finals is scheduled for October 17 at Chase Center in San Francisco. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.