In what was an unexpected development, Angel McCoughtry, forward for the Atlanta Dream, announced she plans to take time off during the upcoming 2017 WNBA season.
McCoughtry wrote this letter to Dream fans on the team’s official website. In the letter, she thanked the game of basketball for providing her with “opportunities on the world stage” and for giving her a hometown in Atlanta.
I have played a continuous year-round schedule with no offseason. It has been an incredible eight years, but this dynamic schedule also takes its toll both mentally and physically. After much careful thought and consideration, I have decided to take time off during the 2017 WNBA season.
–Angel McCoughtry
She stated her belief that the decision is in her best long-term interest and she hopes it will benefit the Dream long-term as well. McCoughtry reiterated her goal is to bring a title to Atlanta.
In a team press release, Dream president Theresa Wenzel said the team respects McCoughtry’s decision and that head coach Michael Cooper as well as his coaching staff “are committed to bringing the best team to the court in 2017.”
I know it is a very difficult decision that Angel is making but is one she has to make for herself.
–Dream head coach Michael Cooper
After playing her collegiate ball at the University of Louisville, McCoughtry has established herself as a marquee name within The W. She is only a few points shy of 5,000 for her career and averaged nearly 20 points and three steals last season while leading Atlanta to the second round of last year’s playoffs.
McCoughtry was also part of the 2016 USA Basketball Women’s National Team which claimed its sixth consecutive gold medal at the Rio Olympics.
The Dream’s season begins on May 13 on the road at Mohegan Sun Arena vs. the Connecticut Sun.
By: Akiem Bailum (@AkiemBailum on Twitter, Instagram)
