Atlanta, Ga – The Atlanta Dream are sitting at 4-3 while still trying to get acclimated with new teammates, a new starting lineup, different rotations and different roles early in the season. One of the acquisitions that the Dream is counting on to become an impact in more ways than one is point guard Crystal Dangerfield.
Dangerfield was acquired on the day of their first preseason game for a third-round pick. A five-year veteran, Dangerfield has played for the Minnesota Lynx, Indiana Fever, New York Liberty and the Dallas Mavericks.
The former 2020 Rookie of the Year was brought here for her leadership and experience according to head coach Tanisha Wright.
“Everybody knows that the point guard position is the toughest position to play and we were young in that with having Haley [Jones],” stated coach Wright. “Bringing somebody in like Crystal helps in that role to kind of lead and be a steady eddy.”
Due to her late signing well into training camp, Dangerfield has played in six games so far as a backup to Jones. She knows that it can be an uphill battle to familiarize herself with the team, coach and scheme.
“I can be a little bit better but I think right now I’m still trying to get comfortable and the games are coming fast so that also helps,” said Dangerfield.”
Her presence has been felt during the limited time she has been with the Dream. The pace picks up once she gets in the game and her leadership is evident according to forward Aerial Powers.
“Crystal Dangerfield brings speed, she’s a nag on defense and helps trying to get us in our sets,” said Powers. ” She’s a floor general when she’s on [the court].”
Dangerfield understands her role and what she was brought here for. It’s still early, but with more opportunities and playing time with her teammates, Dangerfield believes that her chemistry with her teammates should only get better.
‘That’s just understanding my role. Wherever I go, I know I need to pick up the pace, push the ball, get the ball where it needs to be,” said Dangerfield. “I need to get stops on the defensive end, turn it into points, quick points.”
