Rhyne Howard’s rise has been swift and commanding, a blend of talent and determination. From Kentucky courts to the WNBA spotlight, she has carved a path defined by scoring bursts, All-Star nods, and the honor of Rookie of the Year.

Her presence on the Atlanta Dream is undeniable, a combination of skill and poise that transforms games. Each point, each rebound, echoes the promise she has long carried since her youth in Chattanooga.

Beyond statistics, her journey tells of persistence and growth. Olympic bronze, franchise records, and early stardom hint at a career still unfolding—a story of ambition meeting opportunity, with chapters yet to be written on the court.

How old is Rhyne Howard?

Rhyne Howard was born on April 29, 2000, making her 25 years old as of 2025. Her journey from a standout at the University of Kentucky to the WNBA’s top pick in 2022 reflects a rapid ascent in the world of professional basketball.

How tall is Rhyne Howard?

Standing at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm), Rhyne Howard possesses the ideal size for a guard in the WNBA. Her height allows her to excel both offensively and defensively, making her a formidable opponent on the court.

Is Rhyne Howard single?

Rhyne Howard has maintained a relatively private personal life, choosing to prioritize her professional development over public attention. Despite occasional rumors linking her to public figures—most recently speculations involving NBA star Kevin Durant.

She has not confirmed any relationships, highlighting her commitment to letting her performance on the court define her public persona. Her dedication to basketball is evident in her disciplined off-season routines, community involvement, and focus on continuous improvement.

What is Rhyne Howard’s jersey number?

Rhyne Howard wears number 10 for the Atlanta Dream, a choice that has quickly become synonymous with her aggressive, high-energy style of play. The jersey has become a symbol of her presence on the court, recognized by fans and media alike.

Beyond its symbolic value, #10 has been part of her journey from the University of Kentucky to WNBA stardom, linking her collegiate achievements to her professional identity. Her consistent performance while wearing this number reinforces her reputation as a franchise cornerstone.

Rhyne Howard’s career highlights

• WNBA No. 1 Draft Pick (2022): Selected first overall by the Atlanta Dream, she made history as the first No. 1 pick in franchise history, immediately raising expectations for her rookie season.

• 2022 Rookie of the Year: Her debut season demonstrated her scoring ability, defensive skills, and adaptability, earning her the WNBA Rookie of the Year award and solidifying her reputation as a rising star.

• Multiple All-Star appearances: By 2025, she had already secured three WNBA All-Star selections, reflecting consistent performance and recognition among peers and analysts.

• Olympic Bronze medalist (2024): Representing Team USA, she contributed to a bronze medal win in Paris, demonstrating her ability to perform on the international stage and against elite competition.

• Franchise record achievements: In 2024, she set an Atlanta Dream record by scoring 100 points over three games, underscoring her scoring prowess and growing influence on the team’s offensive strategy.

The Atlanta Dream have been one of the WNBA’s most consistent teams this season, sitting third in the league and second in the Eastern Conference standings. On Sunday, they welcomed back six-time All-Star Brittney Griner, who returned from a neck injury. Head coach Karl Smesko was quick to praise her performance.

“I thought BG was great,” Smesko said after the game. “She was moving great. She looked really good out there. Defensively, she was excellent. She was controlling the point. I thought it was a really good first game back for her.”

Griner had missed three straight games before the matchup against the Phoenix Mercury, which the Dream won 74–66. In 13 minutes of action, she tallied two points, two rebounds, and one assist.

Now in her first season with the Dream, Griner is aiming to help lead Atlanta to a WNBA title alongside stars Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray. Despite dealing with several injuries and setbacks this year, the Dream remain well-positioned for a playoff berth.

Still, while her presence has boosted the team, the 6-foot-9 center is enduring one of the least productive seasons of her 12-year career. Through 26 games—25 of them starts—Griner is averaging career lows of 10.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 22.9 minutes per game.

Atlanta suffers another major blow

Unfortunately for Atlanta, the night also brought bad news late in the third quarter when starting guard Jordin Canada suffered a non-contact leg injury. The two-time All-Defensive selection had to be carried off the court and appeared to be in significant pain.

The team is being coy, officially labeling her as “day-to-day” while awaiting further tests. If she’s out for an extended period, it could be a major setback for the Dream’s offense.

The Sky are listed as 9.5-point underdogs at DraftKings Sportsbook for Thursday’s home game against Atlanta. That number reflects the uncertainty surrounding Reese’s availability—and now, confirmation that she’ll be sidelined due to injury further diminishes Chicago’s chances of pulling off an upset.

The Dream, meanwhile, have emerged as one of the top teams in the WNBA Eastern Conference. With an 18-11 record, they sit just behind the New York Liberty and will look to solidify their playoff positioning by avoiding a letdown against a struggling opponent.

Will Angel Reese play?

It appears the Sky will be without All-Star forward Angel Reese for the foreseeable future, as she continues to deal with a back injury. According to multiple reports, there is currently no timetable for her return.

Reese has officially been ruled out for Thursday night’s matchup against Atlanta. Despite snapping an eight-game losing streak with a win over the Washington Mystics earlier this week, Chicago remains far outside the playoff picture and faces an uphill battle without one of its key contributors.

The Sky are again set as 9.5-point underdogs—and it’s no surprise, given Reese’s absence. The two-time All-Star has been a bright spot in an otherwise tough season, averaging 14.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 44.4 percent from the field.

How will the Sky respond?

Without their star forward, the Sky will lean heavily on rookie Kamilla Cardoso and veteran guard Ariel Atkins to carry the load offensively. Cardoso has shown flashes of dominance in recent outings but will face a stiff test against Atlanta’s frontcourt, which added Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones this season.

As for Reese, her long-term status remains unclear. With Chicago’s postseason hopes all but dashed, the team may opt to keep her out until she’s fully healthy, avoiding the risk of aggravating the injury. That could mean an extended absence—and even more pressure on Chicago’s supporting cast to step up.

Alisha Gray has steadily become a key figure for the Atlanta Dream, showing growth and leadership on the court. Her journey reflects a mix of talent and determination, but behind the scenes, her contract speaks volumes about the team’s long-term plans.

In the WNBA, a player’s contract often reveals more than just salary — it hints at how a franchise values their presence and potential. Her deal is no exception, balancing immediate impact with future expectations in a competitive league.

As the franchise build around their core, her evolving role highlights both challenges and opportunities. It offers a window into the business side of basketball, where numbers meet the pursuit of excellence and team success.

What is Alisha Gray’s salary with the Atlanta Dream?

Allisha Gray’s compensation for the 2025 WNBA season reflects her significant role within the Atlanta Dream. According to Spotrac, she earns a base salary of $190,000, with both her cap hit and dead cap value matching this amount.

In the broader context of the WNBA, her salary positions her within the mid-range of league-wide earnings. Her compensation reflects her status as a seasoned player with a proven track record, including her All-Star appearances and contributions to the Dream’s recent successes.

Alisha Gray’s contract: How long does the deal last?

Allisha Gray’s current contract with the Atlanta Dream is a three-year deal valued at $494,400. This contract, signed in 2023, signifies the team’s commitment to building a competitive team around key players like her.

As this term progresses, she is set to become a free agent in the 2026 offseason, giving her the option to re-sign or explore new opportunities elsewhere. This structure allows the franchise to evaluate roster needs and maintain cap flexibility.

As the WNBA continues to evolve, her contract may serve as a benchmark for future player negotiations, balancing financial considerations with the growing recognition of players’ value both on and off the court.

Alisha Gray has risen from a promising college talent to a key guard for the Atlanta Dream. Known for her speed and defensive hustle, she brings energy and skill that go beyond the stat sheet, shaping her impact in crucial moments.

Hailing from Greenwood, her path reflects steady growth and adaptation. Her ability to read the game and guard multiple positions highlights her versatility, while her offensive game continues to develop in the competitive WNBA arena.

Off the court, she carries a quiet determination rooted in her upbringing and personal drive. As she carves out her role with the Dream, the blend of talent, grit and commitment defines both her journey and her presence on the team.

How old is Alisha Gray?

Allisha Gray was born on January 12, 1995, in Greenwood, South Carolina, making her 30 years old as of August 2025. Raised in Sandersville, Georgia, she attended Washington County High School, where she was a standout player, earning the 3A state player of the year title three times.

Drafted 4th overall by the Dallas Wings in 2017, she quickly made her mark, earning the 2017 Rookie of the Year award. After several successful seasons with the Wings, she was traded to the Atlanta Dream in January 2023, where she continues to shine as a key player.

How tall is Alisha Gray?

Standing at 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 meters), Allisha Gray possesses the height advantage typical of a shooting guard. Her stature allows her to excel both offensively and defensively, contributing significantly to her team’s success.

Alisha Gray’s love life and family

Alisha Gray’s personal life reflects a grounded and supportive environment that has bolstered her professional journey. She is engaged to Tim Mangum Jr., a school psychologist with a master’s degree in psychology from Texas State University.

The couple shares more than a personal bond; they’re also business partners in WNB Factory, a restaurant venture co-owned with her brother, A.J. Gray, who plays college football at Georgia Tech.

Family remains a cornerstone for her, with her upbringing in Greenwood instilling values of hard work and resilience. Her close-knit family circle has been a constant source of motivation, helping her navigate the pressures of the WNBA and maintain focus on her career goals.

What is Alisha Gray’s jersey number?

Alisha Gray dons jersey number 15 for the Atlanta Dream, a number that has become synonymous with her competitive spirit and on-court leadership. This number has accompanied her since her earlier years in the league and has witnessed her growth from a promising rookie to a reliable veteran.

Moreover, it reflects a personal significance to her, symbolizing both her journey and commitment to the game. It serves as a visual reminder of the progress she’s made and the ambitions still ahead as she continues to make her mark with the Dream.

Alisha Gray’s career highlights

• 2017 WNBA Rookie of the Year: She made an immediate impact upon entering the league, earning the Rookie of the Year award after a season marked by consistent scoring and solid defense with the Dallas Wings.

• 3× WNBA All-Star (2023–2025): Her continued development and on-court excellence earned her selections to the WNBA All-Star game for three consecutive seasons, highlighting her status as one of the league’s premier guards.

• Olympic Gold medalist (2020): Adding to her resume, she was part of the USA 3×3 basketball team that secured the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, showcasing her versatility and international caliber.

• WNBA Skills challenge and 3-Point Contest winner (2024): She made history by becoming the first WNBA player to win both the Skills Challenge and the 3-Point Contest during the All-Star Weekend in 2024, underscoring her multifaceted skill set and shooting prowess.

• Career-high 32 points in a game: Demonstrating her scoring ability, she achieved a personal best of 32 points in a single game, a testament to her offensive growth and confidence on the floor.

• Leadership in Atlanta Dream’s rebuilding phase: Since joining the Dream in 2023, she has emerged as a key figure in the team’s effort to rebuild and compete, contributing veteran savvy and steady production that have energized the roster.

After a whirlwind few years both on and off the court, Brittney Griner is back in full force, now wearing the Atlanta Dream jersey. Her move to the franchise has sparked renewed interest in her performance—and her paycheck.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist and former No. 1 draft pick continues to be one of the WNBA’s most recognizable names. With the 2025 season underway, questions linger around her current contract, its value and what lies ahead.

Between salary figures, incentives, and the clock ticking on her deal, her chapter in Atlanta has become a focal point for fans and analysts alike. Just how long will she remain in Dream colors—and how much is she earning while doing so?

What is Brittney Griner’s salary with the Atlanta Dream?

Brittney Griner’s move to Atlanta comes with a familiar financial tune… she’s signed a one‑year, fully guaranteed contract worth $214,466, matching her base salary, cap hit and dead‑cap value for the season, according to Spotrac.

In a league where the top earners hover around $250k, she lands among the upper tier—tied as the Dream’s highest‐paid player alongside Brionna Jones. Yet her stated motive wasn’t just dollars and cents.

As she pointed out at her Atlanta unveiling, this short‑term deal positions her perfectly for the anticipated 2026 collective bargaining agreement, one that could dramatically boost WNBA earnings.

Brittney Griner’s contract: How long will she be with Atlanta Dream?

Despite being a major headline-maker, Brittney Griner’s stay in Atlanta isn’t tied to a long-term pact. The deal spans just one season, set to expire at the end of 2025. This timing aligns with her goal to remain flexible during the upcoming CBA negotiations.

Several league sources note that she is part of a wave of stars opting for one-year deals, allowing them flexibility and eligibility for improved structure under the new CBA. She emphasized that the short-term nature of the contract is both intentional and personal; it’s about more than just the paycheck.

By committing to Atlanta for a single campaign, she not only bolsters the Dream’s roster this season, but also positions herself to renegotiate on enhanced terms in 2026 once the new CBA is in place.

Rhyne Howard will probably miss the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game after suffering a left knee injury during the Atlanta Dream’s 99–82 loss to the Indiana Fever last Friday. The Dream confirmed Monday that Howard suffered a left knee injury, and she is expected to be sidelined through at least the end of July.

The injury occurred during the first half of Friday’s game, where Howard left briefly but returned to play 14 more minutes in the second half. The Dream said Howard is expected to make a full recovery and that updates will be provided once more is known about the injury’s severity.

Howard had been selected to play in her third WNBA All-Star Game, earning a spot on the roster after being picked by captain Napheesa Collier during last week’s draft. The 25-year-old guard was set to face off against Team Clark, led by Fever star Caitlin Clark. Now, the league will need to name a replacement before Saturday’s game.

Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is expected to select a fill-in for Howard. Though no decision has been announced, several names are under consideration. Brionna Jones, Howard’s teammate on the Dream, could be a candidate. However, Jones plays the forward position, while Howard is a guard. If the league prefers to maintain positional balance, Washington Mystics guard Brittney Sykes could also be in the mix.

Howard’s return to the All-Star roster this season marked a bounce back after missing the event last year. She has averaged 16.5 points, along with a career-low 34.9% shooting from the field. Despite the dip in efficiency, she’s on pace for personal bests in rebounds and assists.

WNBA All-Star match set for Saturday

The 2025 WNBA All-Star Game will take place Saturday night, with Caitlin Clark and Napheesa Collier leading their respective squads. The team selection was held last week, with head coaches Cheryl Reeve of the Lynx and Sandy Brondello of the Liberty named to lead the teams.

Howard’s absence will be felt, especially for Team Collier, which now awaits confirmation of who will fill the open roster spot. The game remains a high-profile moment in the WNBA calendar, with the league’s most popular and high-performing players converging on one court.

The Dream, meanwhile, will continue to manage without Howard as they head into the second half of the season. Her return timetable will depend on further evaluations and how her recovery progresses over the coming weeks.

To protect their key players, existing teams can designate up to six players as ineligible for selection. This includes current roster members and players whose draft rights they hold, meaning that it also includes the “core” players.

The Valkyries face challenges in building a competitive team, especially as there are top players like New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart and Nneka Ogwumike are protected due to their core designations.

The upcoming CBA negotiations further complicate matters, as many players are opting for one-year contracts to maximize their earning potential. This could limit the Valkyries’ options in the expansion draft and force them to rely on the college draft to build their team.

As the expansion draft approaches, the WNBA landscape is shifting. The Valkyries will need to make strategic decisions to assemble a roster that can compete in the league. The list of the protected players won’t be public.

What happens with the unrestricted free agents that can’t be cored?

While the Valkyries can technically select any unprotected unrestricted free agent, practical limitations exist. Players who have already been cored twice, such as DeWanna Bonner, Tina Charles, Brittney Griner, Natasha Howard, Brionna Jones, and Nneka Ogwumike, are essentially off-limits. Since these players cannot be cored again by their current teams or by the Valkyries, selecting them would serve no purpose.

Who can the Valkyries pick?

The Valkyries can select almost any player who was on a WNBA roster at the end of the 2024 regular season. This includes active players, suspended players, players on draft lists, reserved players, and even retired players. However, they cannot select players who were on hardship contracts or unrestricted free agents who haven’t been cored by a team.

What can existing teams do to protect their players?

To protect their core players, existing teams can submit a list of up to six players who will be ineligible for selection by the Valkyries. This includes both active roster players and players with future rights, such as draft picks or reserved players.

When is the Expansion Draft taking place?

It will take place on December 6th.