From Bench Powerhouse to History Maker: Naz Hillmon Crowned Atlanta Dream's First-Ever Sixth Person of the Year

A new chapter has been etched into the Atlanta Dream's history books, and its author is none other than the phenomenal Naz Hillmon! The powerful forward has officially been named the WNBA's Sixth Person of the Year, marking a groundbreaking moment as the first player in franchise history to claim this prestigious award.

This isn't just a personal triumph for Hillmon; it’s a resounding testament to the incredible impact a player can have when coming off the bench, transforming game dynamics with their every move.

The Sixth Person of the Year award celebrates the player who consistently makes the most significant difference for their team while not being a starter.

Hillmon’s performance resonated deeply with the national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters, who awarded her an impressive 39 out of 60 votes, highlighting the undeniable influence she wielded throughout the season.

Hillmon’s statistics paint a vivid picture of her stellar contributions.

Though she started only 16 of her 40 games, she averaged a robust 10.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.0 steals across 23.3 minutes per contest. These numbers represent a remarkable leap from her rookie season, showcasing her dedication to growth and her burgeoning dominance on the court. Her career-high 21 points against Seattle in July wasn't just a personal best; it was a demonstration of her ability to explode offensively when her team needed her most.

Beyond the individual accolades, Hillmon’s presence was pivotal to the Atlanta Dream’s collective success.

Her energy, hustle, and scoring prowess off the bench were crucial in propelling the Dream to secure the final playoff spot in a fiercely competitive league. Head Coach Tanisha Wright articulated her pride, noting the significant strides Hillmon has made: "She came in with a chip on her shoulder. She showed up every day, she put in work.

This is a kid that just continues to get better every single day. I’m just proud of the growth that she’s had and for her to be rewarded for that."

Drafted 15th overall in the 2022 WNBA draft, Hillmon’s journey to this historic achievement is a story of perseverance and proving doubters wrong.

Her ability to provide an immediate spark, whether through offensive firepower, tenacious rebounding, or defensive stops, made her an invaluable asset to the Dream. This award not only solidifies her status as one of the league's rising stars but also sets a new standard for excellence for bench players across the WNBA.

Naz Hillmon's historic Sixth Person of the Year award is more than just a trophy; it's a symbol of her relentless spirit and her transformative impact on the Atlanta Dream.

As the team looks to build on its success, Hillmon’s role as a dynamic force off the bench will undoubtedly remain central to their aspirations, promising an even brighter future for both her and the franchise.