Holly Winterburn’s woke up Tuesday expecting to cross one major basketball milestone off her list. After missing all of last season with an injury, Winterburn was set to play in her first WNBA game.
But that dream will have to wait a little longer. Winterburn was cut by the Atlanta Dream just hours before Tuesday’s game against the Dallas Wings.
To make matters even worse, Winterburn said she received the news as she was boarding the team bus for the game. Winterburn made that claim in a post on her Instagram story.
The post, which features a picture of Winterburn during a preseason game, contained the following message from Winterburn:
“I thought my welcome to the W moment would happen on the court, not as I’m getting on the bus for my first ever game. But that’s the reality of this business & I will always be grateful for the opportunity Atlanta gave me.
“I’m built for this. Thank you to everyone who has checked in on me & and sent love. Everything happens for a reasons and I’m so excited for what’s next.”
It’s been quite the journey for Winterburn to make it to the WNBA. After one season at Oregon, Winterburn played professionally in England. She was originally signed by the Dream ahead of the 2025 WNBA season, but missed the entire year due to an injury.
After seeing time in the preseason, Winterburn was expected to take the court for the Dream at some point in 2026, but Tuesday’s news changed that.
If the 25-year-old still desires to play in the WNBA, she’ll look to accomplish that goal with another team. Following her release, Winterburn is now a free agent, and able to sign with any team.