The WNBA season is officially underway, but for one player, the journey ended before it even truly began. Holly Winterburn, a guard for the Atlanta Dream, shared a heartbreaking update on her Instagram story this week: she was released from the team just as she was about to board the bus for the season opener.

"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," Winterburn wrote on Tuesday, May 12. "But that’s the reality of this business, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity Atlanta gave me."

There’s no easy way to tell a player they’ve been cut, but being informed you’re waived while stepping onto the bus for the first game of the season? That’s a tough blow for any athlete. Winterburn’s candid post sheds light on the harsh realities of professional sports, where roster decisions can come at the most unexpected moments.

For fans of the WNBA and women’s basketball, this story is a reminder of the resilience it takes to compete at the highest level. Winterburn’s grace in the face of disappointment speaks volumes about her character, and we’re sure this won’t be the last we see of her on the court. As the season heats up, the Dream will move forward, but Winterburn’s journey is far from over.

Stay tuned for more WNBA updates and behind-the-scenes stories that celebrate the grit and determination of these incredible athletes.