A New Language of Connection
When the Atlanta Dream stepped onto the hardwood of State Farm Arena for their home opener, the 17,000‑strong crowd was not the only thing that felt different. The players had spent weeks perfecting a series of coordinated handshakes that turn the moments before tip‑off into a choreographed performance. What began as simple high‑fives has evolved into elaborate routines that blend rhythm, humor and personal flair, serving as a silent conversation between teammates.
The ritual’s roots lie in chemistry. Angel Reese, the rookie sensation, reached out to concussion‑protocol guard Rhyne Howard to sync a handshake that would later become a staple of the Dream’s pregame show. Meanwhile, Naz Hillmon and Howard crafted a back‑to‑back sequence that went viral, while Te‑Hina Paopao, the team’s self‑appointed handshake architect, introduced a Bad Boy‑themed exchange with Hillmon that sparked a flurry of online shares.
Other teams have adopted similar practices. Rori Harmon of the Washington Mystics recalls starting with basic high‑fives before gradually adding creative motions, while Anneli Maley of the New York Liberty, who was cut and later re‑signed, found that a shared routine helped her feel welcomed. Across the league, players like Kaitlyn Chen of the Golden State Guard stress collaboration, often seeking input from teammates rather than imposing a single idea.
The impact extends beyond morale. Expansion franchises such as the Valkyries used handshakes to accelerate cohesion among newcomers like Gabby Williams and Kiah Stokes, while coaches like Karl Smesko have embraced the practice as a way to connect with players on a personal level. Yet not every idea lands; some proposals are rejected, and many acknowledge that the thought behind a handshake may be less complex than fans imagine.
Beyond the Court
Whether viewed as a gimmick or a genuine bonding tool, the growing trend underscores a broader shift in women’s basketball toward community building and fan engagement. As the league continues to expand, these rituals may well become a defining feature of its identity.