Mason Mill Park Mural Unveiling: A vibrant mural, painted by Jermaine Clark, was unveiled at Mason Mill Park in Decatur, GA, showcasing community investment in public art and symbolizing unity and inclusivity in the park’s landscape.
Decatur, GA – June 4, 2024
On Saturday, June 1, 2024, Mason Mill Park in Decatur celebrated its new mural’s much-anticipated unveiling and ribbon cutting. The event drew a lively crowd, with Commissioner Michelle Long Spears of DeKalb County District 2 expressing her excitement about the project’s completion.
Left to right: DeKalb Director of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Chuck Ellis, Commissioner Michelle Long Spears of DeKalb County District 2, Atlanta-based artist Jermaine Clark
The mural, painted by Atlanta-based artist Jermaine Clark, is a striking addition to the park, showcasing vibrant colors and captivating imagery. Funded by the DeKalb District 2 Park Bond, the mural is more than just a decorative piece; it is a testament to the community investment’s power in public art. The artwork enriches the park’s aesthetic while symbolizing unity and inclusivity.
The unveiling event marked the culmination of a journey that began with public engagement meetings organized by the community and Clark. Over four months, ideas were shared and visions crafted, resulting in a collective masterpiece that now adorns the park’s landscape.
Park visitor Laurie shows excitement for the new mural
Steeped in history, this park, is a testament to our community’s commitment to providing a space for everyone to enjoy. It offers miles of paved wooded trails for walking and running, a large playground with multiple climbing structures for children, a community garden, and a Recreation Center. It is also home to the DeKalb Tennis Center, which features tennis and pickle ball facilities.
Just minutes from downtown Decatur, Mason Mill Park is steeped in history. In the 1850s, Ezekiel Mason built a flour mill on the bank of Burnt Fork Creek near where it flows into the south fork of Peachtree Creek. This mill is the namesake of both Mason Mill Road and Mason Mill Park.
The Atlanta Dream defeated the winless Washington Mystics 73-69, with Alisha Gray scoring 19 points and Tina Charles contributing 17 points and 15 rebounds in the impressive road victory.
Atlanta, GA – May 30, 2024
In a highly anticipated road trip, the Atlanta Dream faced off against the Washington Mystics on Wednesday night. The game began with a quick start from Atlanta, as Alisha Gray nailed a three-pointer to put the Dream on the board first. The initial five minutes of the first quarter saw a flurry of action, with both teams trading buckets, fouls, and turnovers.
Parker-Tyus was fouled with seven minutes remaining in the first quarter and successfully sank the free throw. By the 3:30 mark, the score was tied at 15-15. However, the Mystics managed to edge ahead, finishing the first quarter with a 22-18 lead. This marked another game where the Dream failed to win the first quarter this season.
The second quarter was a stark contrast to the first. With seven minutes left, the Mystics had only managed to score two points, while the Dream had added four. The teams were tied at 24 points each with 5:53 remaining in the quarter. Gray’s three-pointer with 1:38 left on the clock pulled Atlanta ahead. The Dream went on a 10-0 run to dominate the second quarter, outscoring the Mystics 20-12 and leading 38-34 at halftime. Gray delivered a stellar performance, scoring 14 points in the first half. Tina Charles made a significant impact off the bench, contributing 10 points and eight rebounds in the second quarter alone.
The third quarter saw four lead changes and a tie by the 7:35 mark. Both teams displayed excellent ball movement as they started the second half. Mystics’ Akins showcased her tenacity by fighting for the ball and scoring underneath the basket. With three minutes left in the third, Rhyne Howard went coast-to-coast for her first bucket of the game, drawing a foul. Despite a review request by the Mystics, the call stood, and Howard tied the game at 48-48 with her free throw. Aerial Powers then ignited the Dream fans with a three-pointer, but spirited play from Shakira Austin kept the game tight. The quarter ended with the teams tied at 54-54.
The fourth quarter began with the score knotted, turning the game into a race to the finish. Both teams traded buckets early on, with Atkins scoring for the Mystics to give them a brief lead. Powers was sent to the free throw line for three shots but missed them all with eight minutes left. A crucial block by Stefanie Dolson energized the Mystics with six minutes to play. However, a steal and basket by Gray highlighted the Dream’s defensive prowess, bringing their total to nine steals for the game.
Late in the quarter, Parker-Tyus put the Dream ahead by five points as Atlanta went on a 10-2 run. Despite Austin’s poise in knocking down two free throws with about 2:20 remaining, the Dream held their ground. Howard was sent to the line twice in the final seconds, making all four free throws to seal the victory. The last two minutes were marked by physical play in the paint, but the Dream emerged victorious.
The Mystics remain winless with a record of 0-7, while the Dream improved to 3-2. The Mystics will next face the New York Liberty. Meanwhile, the Dream will take on the reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, at the Gateway Center Arena on Friday.
Tina Charles, with her stellar performance, finished the game with 17 points, shooting 7/11 from the floor, and grabbing 15 rebounds. Alisha Gray, with her impressive shooting, contributed 19 points, shooting 7/9, including 4 of 6 from three-point range. Aerial Powers added 12 points and 5 rebounds, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus scored 10 points, and Rhyne Howard chipped in with 11 points. Five players from the Dream scored in double figures, showcasing their balanced attack and team effort in this impressive road win.
Atlanta Dream Falls to Minnesota Lynx in Hard-Fought Battle. Rhyne Howard shines with 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, but McBride’s 31 points lead the Lynx to a 92-79 victory.
Atlanta, GA – May 27, 2024
In a hard-fought battle on Sunday, May 26, the Atlanta Dream faced off against the Minnesota Lynx. Despite the loss, the Dream showed remarkable resilience, especially with a standout performance from Rhyne Howard. The final score stood at 92-79 in favor of the Lynx, but the Dream’s determination was evident throughout.
Howard, of the Atlanta Dream, showcased her versatility throughout the game, spending 34 minutes on the court and contributing 23 points, five rebounds, and 5 assists. Her performance was truly impressive. On the other side, McBride’s dominant performance for the Lynx, leading all players with an impressive 31 points, was a sight to behold.
The game started with Howard sinking a 3-pointer for the Dream’s first shot, demonstrating their early determination. The Dream exhibited poise during the first quarter with solid ball movement and numerous shot attempts. They maintained an efficient two-point field goal percentage, sinking 9 out of 12 attempts. At the same time, the Lynx struggled slightly from two-point range, making only 4 out of 8 shots, but made up for it with 3-pointers.
Despite a strong showing from the Dream in the first quarter, the Lynx maintained their lead, at the end of each quarter throughout the game. The Lynx outscored the Dream in the first three quarters. The third quarter, in particular, saw the Lynx’s dominance, with McBride leading the charge and Napheesa Collier contributing significantly.
The Dream mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Lynx 20-15, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit. Howard again led the Dream in scoring, with support from Tina Charles, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, and others.
Looking ahead, the Dream, with a 2-2 record, will face the winless Mystics on Wednesday, May 29. This match promises to be an exciting one. Meanwhile, the Lynx, buoyed by their victory, will host the Las Vegas Aces on the same day and the Phoenix Mercury on Friday, May 31. These upcoming matches are definitely ones to watch.
Cheryl Reaves, the Lynx’s head coach, entered the game with an impressive record and a wealth of experience, having been named WNBA Coach of the Year three times. Her leadership undoubtedly contributed to the Lynx’s victory, further solidifying their position as contenders in the league.
Tanisha Wright: A Trailblazing Figure in Women’s Basketball
Tanisha Wright, a WNBA legend and coach, inspires with her leadership and dedication. From playing to coaching, she’s made a lasting impact on the Atlanta Dream and women’s basketball as a whole.
Atlanta, GA – May 21, 2024
In women’s basketball, Tanisha Lovely Wright stands tall as a figure of inspiration and leadership. She seamlessly transitioned from a stellar playing career to a coaching role that has seen her ascend to the helm of the Atlanta Dream in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1983, Wright’s journey to basketball prominence began early, honing her skills on the hardwood of West Mifflin High School in Pennsylvania. Her exceptional talent saw her amass an impressive 2,477 points and 1,100 rebounds during high school, culminating in a remarkable 51-point performance in a Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) title game. Such feats earned her a well-deserved induction into the WPIAL Hall of Fame in 2018.
Wright’s prowess on the court flourished further during her collegiate days at Penn State University from 2001 to 2005. A standout player for the Lady Lions, she etched her name in school history, earning U. S. Basketball Writers Association All-America First Team honors and finishing her career with 1,995 points, placing her sixth among all-time Lady Lions. Her defensive skills were equally noteworthy, earning her three consecutive Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year accolades, a feat unmatched in conference history.
Wright’s professional career started with her selection in the 2005 WNBA Draft, where she was chosen 12th overall by the Seattle Storm. Throughout a distinguished 14-year career in the league, Wright showcased her versatility and tenacity. She contributed significantly to the Storm’s 2010 WNBA title triumph and amassed 1,423 career assists, ranking her 10th in WNBA history.
Wright seamlessly transitioned into coaching, beginning her tenure as an assistant coach with the Charlotte 49ers in 2017, while still playing professionally. Her coaching acumen quickly garnered attention, leading to her appointment as an assistant coach with the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces in 2020, where she worked closely with renowned coach Bill Laimbeer.
In October 2021, Wright’s journey came full circle as she assumed the role of head coach for the Atlanta Dream, marking a new chapter in her basketball career. Under her guidance, the Dream experienced a resurgence, achieving their most wins in a season since 2018, and earning Wright accolades such as the Associated Press Coach of the Year award. Her leadership and coaching acumen have been instrumental in the team’s success, a testament to her ability to inspire and guide her players.
As head coach, Wright has endeavored to instill a culture of integrity and accountability within the Dream, fostering the growth and development of her players both on and off the court. Her tenure has seen the team’s performance steadily improve, with a record of 34 wins and 44 losses since her appointment.
Tonight, as the Dream prepares to face off against the Dallas Wings in their 2024 home opener at the Gateway Center Arena, all eyes are on Wright and her squad. With each team having one win and one loss, the stakes are high, with victory promising an early winning season record for the triumphant team.
Atlanta Dream Venue Change: The Atlanta Dream has moved their June 21 and August 26 games to the State Farm Arena, accommodating growing demand and providing an enhanced experience for fans, with tickets on sale starting May 22nd.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA – May 18, 2024
The Atlanta Dream has announced a significant venue change for their upcoming games against the Indiana Fever. They will shift both the June 21 and August 26 matchups from the 3,500-seat Gateway Center Arena to the expansive 17,000-seat State Farm Arena. This move aims to accommodate the growing demand from fans and provide an enhanced experience for spectators.
The decision follows a trend set by other WNBA teams, such as the Las Vegas Aces, Los Angeles Sparks, and the Washington Mystics, who have all opted to move their Fever games to larger arenas.
The Atlanta Dream’s decision reflects a strategic approach to meeting the rising interest in women’s basketball. Caitlin Clark, the 2024 number-one WNBA draft pick, has been the catalyst for increased ticket sales and all-around interest in women’s basketball. Clark’s performance during her final season as an Iowa Hawkeye was a springboard for much of the interest in women’s basketball, which is continuing during Caitlin Clark’s first season as a pro.
The decision follows a recent preseason matchup between the Dream and the Fever on May 8 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The Fever narrowly clinched victory with a final score of 83-80, indicating the potential for intense competition in future matchups.
Members of the Dream Elite will receive detailed instructions via email regarding the seamless transfer of their seats to the State Farm Arena. However, single-game ticket holders should note that their seats will not automatically transfer. Information on ticket transfers for single-game ticket holders will be communicated via email and text message, with purchasers having the option to contact the original vendor for further assistance.
Atlanta Dream season ticket members and registrants for the single game ticket presale will be granted priority access to tickets for the relocated games. However, all parties will be subject to ticket limits to ensure availability following the presale.
Additionally, fans attending games at the State Farm Arena can look forward to merchandise stations conveniently located within the arena premises. These stations offer an opportunity to support the team and enhance the overall game experience.
Tickets for the highly anticipated matchups between the Atlanta Dream and the Indiana Fever will officially go on sale starting Wednesday, May 22nd, at 10:00 a.m. This will provide fans with ample time to secure their seats for what promises to be thrilling contests.
For more information about the Atlanta Dream, fans are encouraged to visit the team’s official website, which provides updates and announcements regarding upcoming games and other team-related news.
Caitlin Clark Makes WNBA Debut: WNBA rookie Caitlin Clark, drafted by the Indiana Fever, is set to make a lasting impression on women’s basketball, with a reported $20 million deal with Nike and sold-out games anticipated.
Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever are hosting the Atlanta Dream
Atlanta, GA – May 8, 2024
The Indiana Fever drafted Caitlin Clark into the WNBA on April 15, 2024.
Clark is set to make a lasting impression on women’s basketball, from the WNBA down to the earliest traveling teams of middle school.
It has been reported that starting salaries for WNBA players is approximately $76,535. Caitlin is set to earn well over $20 million as a result of a deal signed with Nike.
Caitlin’s entry into the game (WNBA) has led some teams to move their games against the Indiana Fever to larger arenas to accommodate the anticipated explosion in ticket sales. One of the first reported teams to move their game with the Fever was the Las Vegas Aces (Aces). The Aces moved their matchup with the Fever from the 12,000-seat Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas to the 20,000-seat T-Mobile Arena.
According to the T-Mobile Arena website, the arena opened on April 6, 2016, and is owned by AEG and MGM Resorts International. It has a basketball seating capacity of 18,000. The July 2nd game between the Aces and the Fever has ticket prices ranging from an affordable $58.00 to a maximum price of $2,500. There are only a few seats left on the website’s seating chart. By the way, the T-Mobile Arena Premium seats are no longer available for the July 2nd game.
Caitlin Clark and the Fever team will match up with the Atlanta Dream in a preseason game on Friday, May 9 at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN. According to TicketMaster, there are seats available for this preseason game ranging in price from $51.00 up to $380.00.
The Atlanta Dream’s home schedule shows games against the Fever on June 21, August 26,
As a college athlete, Caitlin had a sizeable paycheck. She was able to capitalize on her name, image, and likeness (NIL). The term refers to the rights of college and high school athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness through product endorsement and other activities. The NIL laws apply to all college athletes.
According to the IndyStar, as a college athlete, Caitlin had national sponsorships with State Farm, Gatorade, Nike, Xfinity, H&R Block, and Panini America, among others.
Clark and the Fever will have their first regular season game against the Connecticut Sun on Tuesday, May 14, which will be live-streamed on Disney+. While there has been no report of the streaming service continuing to showcase Fever games, a deal could be struck if the viewership numbers are high.
Caitlin is living the American Dream – doing something she loves and getting paid well to do it.
Jay’Den Turner’s Inspiring Journey: From high school phenom to college basketball star, Turner’s remarkable career is marked by dedication, exceptional talent, and humility, paving the way for a bright future in professional basketball.
Atlanta, GA – May 3, 2024
Jay’Den Turner and his fellow athletes were honored with a graduation reception on April 30th at the Georgia State University Parc Stadium. Each athlete was presented with a Georgia State University Panthers Blue Blazer during the reception. The Blazer is a symbol of accomplishment, brotherhood, and sisterhood.
Jay’Den Turner receives Georgia State University Blazer from coach Jonas Hayes
Certain college basketball players possess a rare blend of talent, dedication, and passion that sets them apart from the rest. Jay’Den Turner is one such player, a standout forward whose journey from high school phenom to college basketball star has been nothing short of remarkable.
A High School Sensation
Turner’s basketball journey began in the halls of Southwest Guilford High School, where he established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the court. With his imposing 6’5″ frame, versatile skill set, and relentless work ethic, Turner led his team to unprecedented success, capturing the hearts of fans and the attention of scouts nationwide. At the end of Jay’Den’s final year of high school with the Cowboys in 2019, he was ranked 129th Nationally, 7th in North Carolina, 2nd in Division 3A, 1st in Piedmont Triad, 1st by the North Carolina Coaches Association.
In addition, Turner’s stellar performances during his senior year earned him a slew of accolades, including First-Team All-State honors and MVP of North Carolina’s prestigious East-West All-Star Game. During his tenure, Southwest Guilford soared to new heights, clinching the North Carolina 3A State Championship, creating a legacy as one of the state’s most celebrated basketball talents.
Transition to Collegiate Success
Building on his high school achievements, Turner embarked on the next chapter of his basketball journey at Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina. Throughout three seasons, he continued to shine on the court, earning a reputation as one of the premier forwards in the ASUN Conference.
During his tenure at Queens University with the Royals, Turner’s statistics spoke volumes about his impact on the game. Averaging 9.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game in his junior year, Turner’s contributions played a pivotal role in his team’s success, solidifying his status as a rising star in collegiate basketball.
Rising to New Heights at Georgia State University
In 2023, Turner made the transition to Division I basketball, joining the Georgia State University Panthers in Atlanta. From the moment he stepped onto the court, Turner made his presence felt, emerging as a standout player in the highly competitive Sun Belt Conference.
In his debut season with the Panthers, Turner’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. Leading the team in rebounds with an average of 8.5 per game, he showcased his versatility by ranking fourth in scoring, third in steals, and leading in three-pointers made. His ability to deliver in clutch moments was evident, as seen in his pivotal role in overtime victories and his impressive streak of double-figure rebounding games.
Left to Right, Ereka Turner, mother, Jonas Hayes, Coach, Jay’Den Turner, Torree Leake, father
A Legacy in the Making
As Turner continues to carve out his legacy in the world of college basketball, his journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. With his unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and humble demeanor, Turner embodies the qualities of a true sportsman and leader both on and off the court.
Even though Turner is somewhat of a giant athlete at 6’ 5”, he is a very modest young man. When asked about his college statistics in a calm voice, he said, “I averaged 9.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists during my college career.”
What’s next?
Now a graduate of Georgia State University with a Master of Science degree in Sports Administration, Jay’Den Turner has a bright future ahead. He plans to make himself available for one of the professional leagues in the US, Canada, or Europe to continue honing his skills and possibly move to the NBA.
Even as Mr. Turner made a tremendous difference on basketball courts in high school and college, he still made time to focus on his studies. He graduated with a 3.3 grade point average.
As he looks ahead, the sky is the limit for Jay’Den Turner. Whether he’s dominating the hardwood or making an impact in the community, one thing is sure: his legacy will endure long after his playing days are over, leaving an indelible mark on the world of basketball and beyond.
WNBA Legend Candace Parker Announces Retirement: After a 16-season career, Candace Parker has retired from the WNBA, leaving behind a legacy of greatness, including three national championships and two Olympic Gold Medals.
Atlanta, GA – April 29, 2024
In an announcement that reverberated throughout the basketball world, Candace Parker, one of the most accomplished players in the history of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), revealed her decision to retire. The news came via an Instagram post on Sunday, April 28, 2024, marking the end of a 16-season career that saw Parker leave an indelible mark on the sport.
“I’m retiring.”
“I promised I’d never cheat the game & that I’d leave it in a better place than I came into it. The competitor in me always wants 1 more, but it’s time. My HEART & body knew, but I needed to give my mind time to accept it.”
Parker’s journey to basketball stardom began when she was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft. From that moment on, she showcased her exceptional talent and versatility on the court, earning the distinction of a seven-time All-Star. Throughout her illustrious career, Parker’s impact extended far beyond individual accolades.
A true champion in every sense, Parker etched her name in the annals of basketball history by achieving a rare feat – winning three national championships with three different teams. Her triumphs with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2016, the Chicago Sky in 2021, and the Las Vegas Aces in 2023 solidified her status as a pioneer in the sport, making her the first WNBA player to achieve such a remarkable milestone.
Parker’s success was not confined to the professional realm; her collegiate career at the University of Tennessee served as a prelude to her WNBA dominance. As a standout player for the Lady Volunteers, she clinched two NCAA national championships in 2007 and 2008, further cementing her legacy as one of the most decorated athletes in women’s basketball history.
Her contributions extended beyond domestic competition, as Parker also represented her country on the international stage. A two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, she exemplified excellence and brought glory to the United States with her stellar performances on the global platform.
Among her numerous accolades, Parker in 2016 was named the WNBA Most Valuable Player, according to the WNBA website – a testament to her unparalleled skill and leadership. Her pivotal role in guiding her team to victory against the Minnesota Lynx showcased her ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
As fans and fellow athletes alike reflect on Parker’s remarkable career, her impact on the game transcends statistics and awards. Her passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations of basketball players to come. As Candace Parker bids farewell to the WNBA, she leaves behind a legacy of greatness that will be cherished for years to come.
Ms. Parker’s greatness will continue as she pursues opportunities in business, community and anything else that she chooses. One of her areas of greatness she can put up points for a lifetime, “Being a Mom is the Most important aspect of who I identify as.”
