Atlanta, Ga. – The Atlanta Dream confirmed Thursday that veteran center Brionna Jones will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season. Jones suffered a left‑leg injury in the team’s August 13 loss to the Connecticut Sun, prompting the club to place her on the injured‑reserve list.
Jones, who missed six games before the recent FIBA World Cup break, has struggled with health issues all year. She first injured her meniscus while playing in Prague in January and underwent surgery in March. After returning to the court on July 17, she managed only nine appearances this season, averaging 8.2 points and 5.6 rebounds in 16.9 minutes per game.
“We are confident Brionna will make a full recovery,” the Dream said in its statement, adding that the team will continue to support her rehabilitation efforts.
Impact on the roster
Jones’ absence leaves a significant void in the frontcourt, but the Dream have several players ready to step up. Angel Reese, who has enjoyed a career‑season in Atlanta, is now the primary interior presence, posting 16.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.8 steals per game. Veteran forward Naz Hillmon has also been a steady contributor, averaging 9.1 points and 4.6 rebounds.
In late August, the Dream added former Phoenix Mercury star DeWanna Bonner after a buyout with her previous team. Bonner debuted on August 30 and brings experience and depth, having averaged 10.6 points and 6.1 rebounds with the Mercury earlier this season.
Rookie center Madina Okot has provided valuable minutes off the bench, contributing 5.4 points and 3.3 rebounds in just 9.2 minutes per game. Her development will be crucial as the team navigates the final stretch of the regular season and prepares for potential playoff action.
Season outlook
Despite the setback, the Dream remain in contention for a postseason berth. The coaching staff emphasized that the team’s depth and the strong play of Reese, Hillmon, Bonner and Okot give them a solid chance to compete in the upcoming weeks.
Last season, Jones appeared in all 44 games, averaging 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds while earning her fourth All‑Star selection. Her experience and leadership will be missed, but the roster’s collective effort aims to keep Atlanta’s playoff hopes alive.
Fans are encouraged to continue supporting the team at State Farm Arena as the Dream push toward the end of the regular season.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
