Haley Jones has quickly become a recognizable name in the world of women's basketball. Her entry into the WNBA marked the next exciting chapter for the decorated Stanford alum. However, recent news has brought both surprise and speculation about her next steps. In this article, we'll dive into the journey of Haley Jones in the WNBA, the impact of her release from the Atlanta Dream, and where her career might lead next.

Rising Star: Haley Jones’ Road to the WNBA

Before entering the professional ranks, Haley Jones made waves at Stanford University. She was a McDonald's All-American and a three-time All-Pac-12 honoree. Jones led Stanford to a national championship in 2021, earning the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player award. Her stats reflected her impact: 13.5 points, nine rebounds, and four assists per game in college. These achievements paved her way to becoming the 6th overall pick in the 2023 WNBA draft.

Haley Jones WNBA Tenure with the Atlanta Dream

Jones joined the Atlanta Dream with high expectations. Over her three-year stint, she played 80 games and started in 30, averaging 3.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 16.2 minutes per game. While her production did not reach the heights of her college days, she quickly proved herself as a valuable teammate and was named to the WNBA All-Rookie First Team.

Despite these contributions, the Atlanta Dream made a shock announcement by waiving Haley Jones in May 2025 as they finalized their roster. You can read more about the decision and its context in official coverage from KSBW reporting on the Atlanta Dream waiving Haley Jones.

What Led to Haley Jones’ Waiver?

The Dream's decision came amidst a series of roster changes and high-profile acquisitions, such as Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner. These moves raised team expectations and increased competition for roster spots. Jones wasn’t the only player let go; several other guards and forwards were also waived as part of the team's restructuring efforts.

Looking back at SI’s analysis of Jones’ time with the Dream, her production stayed mostly consistent through two seasons despite limited minutes and shifting roles. The move reflects the Dream's current focus on revamping their team identity after narrowly making the playoffs with a 15-25 record last season.

What’s Next for Haley Jones in the WNBA?

Now that Haley Jones has cleared waivers, much attention has turned to her future. The recently formed Golden State Valkyries, based in Jones's home state of California, have been mentioned as a potential landing spot. Their roster remains under construction, and Jones' versatility and basketball IQ could prove invaluable to the expansion team. Additionally, joining the Valkyries would bring her closer to home, offering both personal and professional benefits. You can learn more about why Golden State could be a great fit in Sports Illustrated's coverage of Jones and the Valkyries.

Looking Ahead: Haley Jones’ Determination and Potential

Haley Jones has faced setbacks before, but her track record suggests she thrives when new opportunities arise. With her championship pedigree and strong work ethic, Jones remains a valuable asset in the WNBA market. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see where she lands next and how she will contribute to her new team.

In summary, the Haley Jones WNBA story is far from over. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the ever-changing landscape of professional sports. Stay tuned for the next exciting chapter in her career.