Breonna Jones is expected to need some time to recover from a knee injury. The four-time WNBA All-Star forward suffered a meniscus tear while playing abroad for USK Prague, as confirmed by the Czech club’s Instagram. Jones’ agent told ESPN that she will return to the United States to undergo surgery.
USK Prague shared on social media that the team initially attempted conservative treatment, but after 10 days, it was determined that surgery was necessary, and Jones chose to have the operation in the U.S.
At 30 years old, Jones is set to make her fourth All-Star appearance and her first representing the Atlanta Dream. After spending eight seasons with the Connecticut Sun, she signed a one-year contract with the Dream last offseason and recently became a free agent. Like many veteran WNBA players, she is aiming for a pay raise with the new collective bargaining agreement.
A Maryland Terrapins alum under coach Brenda Frese, Jones earned the WNBA Most Improved Player award in 2021 and Sixth Player of the Year in 2022. Last season, she started all 44 games for Atlanta, averaging 12.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting an efficient 52.7 percent from the field.
Jones last appeared for USK Prague on January 22, recording eight points, six rebounds, and one assist. She has played with the club during WNBA offseasons since 2019, earning EuroLeague Finals MVP honors last year.
ESPN reports that Jones is likely to be ready for the start of the upcoming WNBA season. However, there remains a significant divide between the league and players regarding a new collective bargaining agreement.
Fan Take: This injury is a major setback for one of the WNBA’s most dynamic players, and her recovery will be closely watched by fans and teams alike. Jones’ situation highlights the risks players take competing internationally during the offseason and underscores the importance of supporting athletes’ health as the league evolves.
