Change continues to happen within the Atlanta Dream franchise. First, one of the old owners did not support the women of the team which led to new ownership. Then it was followed by Nicki Collen abruptly leaving the team to take the head coaching position at Baylor a week before the season tipped off. A few weeks ago there was drama in the middle of a game that led to the indefinite suspension of Chennedy Carter. But now, its interim head coach Mike Petersen stepping down from his position.
With Petersen walking away due to health issues, Darius Taylor is now acting head coach for the Dream.
“For health reasons that the grind of the WNBA season will not allow me to adequately address, I have decided to step down from my coaching duties with the Dream,” Petersen said in a statement. “I want to thank the Atlanta Dream players, staff, and ownership for the opportunity to be part of an amazing organization.”
Atlanta is currently 6-13 on the season and returns to the court after the Olympic break on Aug. 15 against Phoenix. However, practice will resume in a few days on July 28.
“It has been a pleasure working with and getting to know Coach Mike,” Dream majority owner Larry Gottesdiener said. “We appreciate his willingness to step up and take on the role of head coach this season and everything he has done for the team. His experience and leadership will continue to be a benefit to the organization as he transitions to his new role.”
