The Dream closes out training camp as they gear up for season opener on Saturday

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Atlanta Dream closed out training camp on Wednesday with the final deadline for roster cuts set for Thursday at 5 p.m.

After Wednesday’s practice, the team celebrated Angel Reese’s birthday.

She had to make a three pointer on her first try in order to get 100 dollars from head coach Karl Smesko, and it wasn’t a problem for the two time All-Star .

A lot of buzz surrounding the addition to Reese on a roster with their main core players returning as this year’s team will look to build off of last year’s historic first year under Coach Smekso.

“Just continue building and being a great team. I remember how last year he said he was going to take us from last in stats to first, and he proved everybody right. So pretty much whatever Karl says is right,” veteran guard Allisha Gray said.

Gray part of the returning core that will look to lead the way this season. While rookies who are also trying to carve their role in with this team, including this year’s WNBL MVP Isobel Borlase.

Borlase has already learned a lot from the veterans.

“Naz and Jordan Canada have probably been the biggest help in the sense of being comfortable to go and ask them questions, and Rhyne and Allisha playing in my position,” Borlase said.

“Being able to watch them and learn and see how they make the game look so easy. It doesn’t feel as easy at the moment for myself, but it’s been really cool to watch them.”

The Dream opens up the season on the road Saturday night at 8 p.m. against the Minnesota Lynx.