The Atlanta Dream is officially sold, the NBA and WNBA confirmed Friday (February 26).
That separates the Atlanta Dream from a “contentious ownership” by former U.S. Sen. Kelly Loeffler, a Georgia Republican who spoke out against the Black Lives Matter movement and the WNBA’s efforts to support it, according to NBC News.
WNBA and NBA boards “have unanimously approved the sale of the Atlanta Dream” to an investor group led by Larry Gottesdiener, Suzanne Abair and Renee Montgomery.
“With the unanimous WNBA and NBA votes, today marks a new beginning for the Atlanta Dream organization and we are very pleased to welcome Larry Gottesdiener and Suzanne Abair to the WNBA,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a press release. “I admire their passion for women’s basketball, but more importantly, have been impressed with their values. I am also thrilled that former WNBA star Renee Montgomery will be joining the ownership group as an investor and executive for the team. Renee is a trailblazer who has made a major impact both in the game and beyond.”
Gotesdiener added that it’s “a privilege to join a team of inspiring women who strive for excellence on the court and equity off the court.”
The Atlanta Dream shared a statement following the news:
“My Dream has come true,” Montgomery said in the release. “Breaking barriers for minorities and women by being the first former WNBA player to have both a stake in ownership and a leadership role with the team is an opportunity that I take very seriously. I invite you to join me as the Dream builds momentum in Atlanta!”
Loeffler and Mary Brock also issued a statement on Friday:
“Ten years ago we stepped up to keep the Dream in Atlanta, as an important asset for a vibrant and diverse city. It was also important to us to help level the playing field for women’s professional sports. We are proud of what we accomplished and wish the team well in their next chapter. We will always value the hard work and dedication, and the memories, fans and friendships that sustained our commitment to the Atlanta Dream over the last decade.”
The Atlanta Dream will play at Gateway Center Arena at College Park during the 2021 season, which will be announced at a later time, according to the WNBA.
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