Holdsclaw signs with Dream

ATLANTA — Chamique Holdsclaw has returned to the WNBA.

The seven-time All-Star and former Tennessee Lady Vol All-American signed a multiyear deal Monday with the Atlanta Dream, which continues to revamp its roster following a 4-30 campaign during its inaugural season. Details of the contract were not released.

Holdsclaw, who retired from the WNBA in 2007, attended games last season. She said Dream general manager/coach Marynell Meadors, a former head coach at Tennessee Tech, spoke to her after one about returning. Holdsclaw, who lives in Atlanta, said the fan support made her “hungry” again and the thought of playing at home was appealing.

“The players played hard last year, but I thought sometimes they lacked the confidence,” said Holdsclaw, who said at least two other WNBA teams had approached her about coming out of retirement. “There were a lot of young players but no veteran leadership.”

The 31-year-old Holdsclaw retired after seven seasons in the WNBA. She played five games with the Sparks in 2007 and averaged 15.8 in those contests. For her career, the forward averaged 17.7 points and 8.3 rebounds a game.

The 2000 Olympic gold medalist has been playing in Poland before having knee surgery about five months ago. She says her knee is about 85 percent and that she should be ready by the June 6 opener.

Meadors says the 6-foot-2 forward will provide a winning attitude.

“I looked at our players we’ve had to let go and the ones we’ve added to our team and it’s a transformation of something that’s really going to be good for the Dream,” Meadors said.

The Dream also have signed several other veterans, including former Lady Vol Michelle Snow.

Meadors said No. 1 pick Angel McCoughtry can feed off Holdsclaw’s winning nature.

“I’ve told all the rookies and younger players that they need to be a sponge and listen to what she says. Just watch her,” Meadors said. “She’s a phenomenal athlete. Just a great basketball player.”