Atlanta Dream’s Dan Padover: WNBA Executive of the Year for the Third Time
Atlanta Dream General Manager Dan Padover has made history by being awarded the WNBA Executive of the Year award for the third time, an unprecedented achievement in the league. Padover, 37, surpassed Minnesota’s Cheryl Reeve, who has won the award twice. Previously, Padover earned this recognition in 2020 and 2021 while working for the Las Vegas Aces. Her career in the WNBA has been marked by the construction of successful teams, starting in New York under the tutelage of Kristin Bernert and Bill Laimbeer, and then in Las Vegas before arriving in Atlanta four years ago.In the current season, Padover brought in coach Karl Smesko and All-Stars Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner, who joined Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray. Thanks to these additions, the Dream doubled their number of wins and achieved third place in the playoffs. The executive highlighted the importance of building a team step by step and expressed his satisfaction with the direction the franchise has taken. The award is given by the 13 general managers of the league, plus the general manager of the Toronto team. Padover received the support of 12 voters, obtaining eight votes for first place. Ohemaa Nyanin of Golden State finished second, after a standout season for the franchise. Nick U’ren of Phoenix and Jamila Wideman of Washington completed the top spots. Padover thanked Larry Gottesdiener, the team owner, for his support and dedication to making Atlanta an attractive destination for the players.“I have been fortunate to be surrounded by great players, staff, and coaches. This award means we were the best basketball organization of the year. It’s not just one person, it’s a group of people. It’s a game, you have to have fun. I like to create an environment where people can be authentic and enjoy every workday,” said Padover.
Dan Padover
In Padover’s four years at the helm, Atlanta has undergone a complete transformation in its roster. “We have completely revamped the roster with 12 new players. We weren’t lucky in the draw, we never got a selection among the top three,” he explained. “When I arrived, the situation was difficult. We couldn’t sign anyone in free agency, so the first moves were through trades. We made trades to sign Rhyne, Naz Hillmon, Lish and Jordin Canada.” Padover also highlighted the fundamental role of Brooklyn Cartwright, his general assistant, in the team’s success.“The goal has always been to create a place where players can focus on basketball. We have a team of people they trust and know that the organization supports them, providing them with all the necessary resources,” added Padover.
Dan Padover
“She is from Atlanta and is the engine of the daily operation. She has been a key piece and has been here since I arrived. She has been present every step of the way,” he concluded.
Dan Padover
