The Atlanta Dream announced Thursday the team signed Minnesota Lynx guard Renee Montgomery to a multi-year contract.
Montgomery, a two-time WNBA Champion who spent the last two seasons with the Lynx, averaged eight points and 3.4 assists last season.
Because of Montgomery's experience as a veteran and in championship scenarios, Collen said she immediately targeted Montgomery when she was hired as Dream head coach in October.
“Renee is a guard who can run a team as well as really stretch the defense with her 3-point shooting ability,” Collen said in a statement. “Beyond her skill on the court, I believe her championship pedigree will help lend leadership in the locker room. Fans will love her tenacity defensively and her ability to light it up from deep.
“I could not be happier that she has decided to call Atlanta her WNBA home and help build something special here.”
The 5-foot-7 guard from South Charleston, WV adds a veteran presence to the Dream who won 12 games and lost the leadership of Angel McCoughtry last season as she took a year off to rest.
In 2017, three out of five of the Dream’s top scorers— Brittney Sykes (13.9) Elizabeth Williams (10.4) and Bria Holmes (7.8)— had two or less years of experience in the league.
While leaving Minnesota was difficult, Montgomery, who lives in Atlanta, sees the benefit of bringing championship experience and veteran ability back East.
“I spoke with Coach Collen for a long time and was very excited with the direction she wanted to take the franchise,” Montgomery said in a statement. “I could feel her passion over the phone, so I’m excited to see what’s in store. I think this is an exciting time for Atlanta.”
Montgomery was drafted by the Lynx in 2009 with the fourth overall pick after winning a championship with Connecticut in 2009.
Montgomery, an avid overseas player, has also had stints with the Connecticut Sun and Seattle Storm.
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