Atlanta Dream Continues Impressive Streak Amidst Strong Season

The Atlanta Dream faced off against the Toronto Tempo on Monday, maintaining their momentum with a three-game winning streak. This streak began on June 14 with a significant 102-77 victory over the Tempo in Toronto. Following that, the Dream engaged in two matchups against the Indiana Fever. They managed a narrow 108-101 win in Atlanta, followed by an outstanding 113-96 triumph on Saturday, setting a franchise scoring record.

Rhyne Howard led the scoring with 24 points during these games. Allisha Gray contributed 22 points, while Naz Hillmon added 19 points. Jordin Canada scored 12 points and provided 12 assists with seven rebounds, nearly achieving a double-double. Angel Reese made an impressive impact by scoring 18 points and securing eight rebounds, becoming the fastest WNBA player to reach 1,000 career rebounds.

This victory advanced the Dream to an 11-4 season record, placing them at the top of the Eastern Conference with a .733 win rate. The only team in the league with a better record is the Minnesota Lynx at 13-4. Angel Reese expressed optimism for the team’s future performances. “I mean, in June, we looked so great. I’m just wondering what it would look like in October and in September,” Reese stated in an interview with SportsCenter’s Keiana Martin. She highlighted the absence of Brionna Jones and praised the team’s performance, emphasizing the contribution of starters and the bench, along with coach Karl Smesko.

Halfway through the season, the Dream has defeated formidable teams such as the top-seeded Lynx, the Dallas Wings (in two encounters), and the Fever (in two encounters). They have also triumphed over the Tempo, Portland Fire, and Washington Mystics, teams near .500. The Wings and Fever were initially seen as title contenders. What’s noteworthy is that Brionna Jones, celebrated for her achievements such as the EuroLeague Finals MVP, is yet to play due to her recovery from a torn meniscus.

Angel Reese has been a force since her remarkable stint in Chicago, being a two-time All-Star and among the best basketball rebounders. In Atlanta, she averages a career-high 15.3 points and leads the league with 11.9 rebounds per game. If the Dream maintains their strength during the summer and reintroduces Jones by September, they can emerge as a major threat in the WNBA playoffs.