Day 8 of training camp brought a major shift for the Atlanta Dream.
This is the point in camp where evaluation turns into decisions.
With the first preseason game approaching, the Dream are beginning to tighten the roster, define roles, and identify who will truly contribute this season.
And with that… came the first tough move.
First Roster Cut: Paige Robinson Released
The Dream officially released Paige Robinson, marking the first roster cut of camp.
This is always the hardest part of the process.
Robinson showed real flashes — especially her ability to shoot the three ball, which is always a valuable skill in today’s game.
But ultimately, roster decisions come down to total impact.
Atlanta’s roster is filled with athletic, versatile players who bring multiple dimensions to the floor. In a competitive camp, being a one-skill specialist can make it harder to stick.
It’s unfortunate, but it speaks to just how deep this roster has become.
Scrimmages Are Getting More Competitive
Another key development from Day 8 is the shift in practice structure.
The Dream are now spending more time scrimmaging against each other rather than using practice players.
That’s important.
Because it gives the coaching staff a clearer look at how players perform in game-like situations against real competition.
And so far?
The top of the roster looks fluid and connected.
Angel Reese’s Impact Is Becoming Clear
Angel Reese continues to stand out — not just because of production, but because of her physical presence.
One thing that continues to go under the radar:
She is big, athletic, and extremely physical.
That combination is going to help this team in multiple ways:
- Rebounding
- Defense
- Interior toughness
- Energy plays
Her presence adds a different dimension to this roster — one that Atlanta didn’t fully have before.
Sika Koné Makes Her Presence Felt
After arriving to camp, Sika Koné was seen in action — and she immediately added to the frontcourt competition.
Koné brings:
- Physical defense
- Athleticism
- Energy in the paint
She’s another player who fits the identity Atlanta is building — tough, active, and versatile.
Her presence only makes the frontcourt battle even more competitive.
Young Core Continues to Shine
Three names continue to stand out day after day:
- Indya Nivar
- Te-Hina Paopao
- Madina Okot
These players have been consistently involved in impactful plays and continue to make strong cases for meaningful roles.
Indya Nivar
Nivar is making a real push.
At this point, she has a legitimate case to compete with Isobel Borlase for the backup guard spot, particularly for minutes alongside Paopao.
Her athleticism, defense, and playmaking continue to stand out.
Te-Hina Paopao
Paopao continues to look like a key piece.
Her shooting, decision-making, and leadership are becoming more evident with each practice.
Madina Okot
Okot’s growth continues.
Her size, defense, and ability to finish make her a player that could contribute sooner than expected.
Projecting the Core 12
As camp progresses, the core roster is becoming clearer.
If things continue on this trajectory, a projected 12-player group could look like:
- Allisha Gray
- Rhyne Howard
- Angel Reese
- Naz Hillmon
- Jordin Canada
- Brionna Jones
- Te-Hina Paopao
- Madina Okot
- Indya Nivar
- Isobel Borlase
- Sika Koné
- Taylor Thierry
At this point, this group feels relatively solid.
Developmental Spots Will Be the Real Battle
Where things get interesting is with the two developmental spots.
There are multiple strong candidates:
- Laila Phelia – Athletic guard with shooting ability
- Bella Fontleroy – Long, versatile wing with upside
- Sacha Washington – Interior presence with size
This may end up being the most competitive part of roster construction.
Final Thoughts
Day 8 made one thing clear:
This roster is starting to take shape.
- Cuts have begun
- Roles are becoming clearer
- Scrimmages are more competitive
- Young players are stepping up
With the preseason approaching, the Dream are entering the final phase of evaluation.
Decisions are coming fast.
And not everyone will make it.
But one thing is certain — Atlanta is building a team with depth, versatility, and identity.
And it’s starting to show. 🏀🔥