Trust, Timing, and Talent: The DNA of Winning Backcourts

Due to the financial structure of the salary cap, it’s rare for WNBA teams to keep their core intact. That has made it harder for teams to develop chemistry over time. Gray and Howard have developed well in Karl Smesko’s system, which is tailored to their skill sets. After playing together for multiple seasons, their understanding and decision-making have improved, and it’s been noticeable how they alternate responsibilities.

Although this is the first year they have played together in the WNBA, Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd have undeniable chemistry. Their four seasons at UConn, and their relationship off the court plays a major part in their continuity. This pairing may not win immediately, but they definitely have the highest ceiling, and the history between them matters. Now, that chemistry is going to be tested against another level of competition.

Gray and Howard are what Bueckers and Fudd are striving to become. The Dream’s backcourt is in their fourth season together and has learned the nuances and complexities of what it takes to win. That time together is starting to pay off in their second season in Smesko’s system. Another vital component is the trust they have for one another. Chemistry begins with trust, and they have developed that over the past few seasons.