The Atlanta Dream announced on April 13 that it selected Madina Okot, Indya Nivar, and Kejia Ran in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Okot was chosen with the 13th pick, Nivar with the 28th pick, and Ran with the 43rd pick.
These selections reflect the team’s focus on adding size, versatility, and international experience to its roster. The Atlanta Dream maintains its role as a key team in the WNBA, according to the official website.
General Manager Dan Padover said, “We’re really excited with the way tonight went. Okot is someone we’ve been targeting for a while now. We believe her best basketball is ahead of her. She’s a great talent with an unlimited upside that Karl and the coaches are thrilled to be able to work with.”
Madina Okot is a center from South Carolina who ranked third nationally in double-doubles last season and averaged over ten rebounds per game. Head Coach Karl Smesko said about Okot: “I couldn’t be more excited (about Okot). We were really hopeful and maybe a bit pessimistic that she would be available. Her ability to crash the boards and the way she moves defensively, I think she’ll be a good addition.”
Indya Nivar comes from North Carolina where she earned All-ACC Second Team honors and led her team in steals and assists during her senior year. Smesko said of Nivar: “We like Navar’s ability to make plays and her knack for the ball. She’s aggressive, attacks downhill and is not afraid of conflict. She is high energy and gets a ton of steals. We’re excited that she was available and looking forward to seeing her compete in training camp.”
Kejia Ran joins from China after averaging over nineteen points per game at last year’s FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup.
The Atlanta Dream serves as an important presence for women’s basketball in the Southeast region according to its official website. The team supports education by organizing initiatives such as backpack drives for students’ school materials according to their official site.
Ownership partners include Larry Gottesdiener, Suzanne Abair, and Renee Montgomery according to information provided by their official website.
The organization also focuses on empowering girls through basketball education, leadership development programs, and community initiatives as reported by its official website.
Looking ahead, Atlanta will open its season at home against Las Vegas Aces on May 17 at State Farm Arena.
