Zandalasini Sinks Clutch Jumper as Valkyries Edge Dream in Thriller

A Needed Breakthrough Against a Rival The Las Vegas Aces finally found success against one of their toughest rivals, defeating the New York Liberty 83-77 at Michelob ULTRA Arena on Wednesday night. The win was particularly significant as it snapped a long regular-season losing streak to New York, giving the Aces their first such victory since 2023. The contest was as competitive as expected between two championship-caliber teams. With thirteen lead changes, nine ties, and neither side ever leading by more than seven points, momentum swung back and forth for much of the night. But in the final minutes, Las Vegas executed more effectively on both ends of the floor to secure its fifth straight win and strengthen its playoff positioning. Loyd Sparks Offense Off the Bench Jewell Loyd delivered one of the night’s most decisive performances. Coming off the bench, she scored 21 points while hitting five shots from beyond the arc. This marked the 26th time in her career she has reached at least five three-pointers in a game, placing her among the league’s most prolific perimeter shooters. Loyd’s timely shooting was most impactful late in the third quarter. After the Liberty built a seven-point lead, the Aces stormed back with consecutive long-range makes. Jackie Young added a crucial four-point play to put Las Vegas in front 59-58. That sequence gave the Aces their first lead since early in the first half and energized the home crowd. Wilson Dominates the Paint A’ja Wilson continued her run of dominance, finishing with 17 points and 16 rebounds for her 15th double-double of the season. She controlled the paint on both ends of the court, anchoring the defense while drawing fouls and converting free throws down the stretch. Wilson’s efficiency at the foul line proved vital. She made all 11 of her attempts, marking the eighth time in her career she has been perfect from the line with at least ten attempts. That consistency under pressure helped seal the victory in the closing minutes. Balanced Contributions From Aces’ Core Beyond Loyd and Wilson, Las Vegas leaned on its core group of playmakers. Jackie Young tallied 15 points, including a buzzer-beater to close the third quarter, while Chelsea Gray contributed 13 points and orchestrated the offense with poise. The Aces also showcased their depth. Even without Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, who missed the game on maternity leave, the rotation provided enough energy and defensive stops to outlast New York in crunch time. Liberty Struggle in Closing Minutes For New York, the defeat underscored lingering struggles in tight finishes. Emma Meesseman led the Liberty with 24 points and 10 rebounds, producing her second consecutive 20-plus-point outing. Sabrina Ionescu added 18 points and Jonquel Jones chipped in 11, but the Liberty offense stalled when it mattered most. In the fourth quarter, New York missed eight straight shots during a critical stretch. While Meesseman and Ionescu combined for all of the team’s 14 points in the period, the lack of balance hurt their chances of reclaiming the lead. New York also played shorthanded once again. Breanna Stewart remained sidelined with a knee injury, and Isabelle Harrison and Nyara Sabally were also unavailable. Though Kennedy Burke returned from a calf injury to add eight points in limited minutes, the Liberty lacked the depth to counter Las Vegas’ second-half push. Key Numbers Tell the Story The Aces relied heavily on their ability to generate second opportunities and convert at the line. They outrebounded the Liberty 39-30 and grabbed 17 points off 11 New York turnovers. Most importantly, they went 23 of 28 at the free-throw line, while the Liberty attempted just 16 free throws.  Despite shooting only 38.5 percent from the field overall, Las Vegas overcame its inefficiency by hitting timely three-pointers and dominating the possession battle. New York, by comparison, shot 43.8 percent but faltered late, managing just 4 of 16 from the field in the decisive fourth quarter. Looking Ahead With the win, Las Vegas improved to 19-14, keeping pace in a crowded playoff race. The victory also extended their home sellout streak to 42 consecutive games, the longest in league history. The Liberty, now 21-12, continue their road trip with a crucial matchup against Minnesota. Having lost two of their last three contests against top-tier competition, New York will need to regroup quickly to maintain its spot near the top of the standings. For the Aces, the momentum from five straight wins and a breakthrough against New York could be the turning point in their season. Their ability to combine star power with bench scoring makes them a formidable opponent as the postseason approaches.

Sun Find a Way to Close Out The Connecticut Sun secured a hard-fought 71–62 win over the Chicago Sky at Mohegan Sun Arena, snapping a five-game losing streak and regaining some much-needed momentum. Despite a rough season that has tested their depth and consistency, the Sun delivered when it mattered most, leaning on a combination of rookie contributions, veteran leadership, and late-game composure. Leila Lacan paced the Sun with 17 points, marking her first time as the team’s leading scorer this year. Tina Charles added 15 points, most of which came in the second half, while Marina Mabrey chipped in 10 points alongside steady playmaking. The win improved Connecticut’s record to 6–26, while Chicago slipped to 8–24 after dropping 11 of their last 12 games . Early Battle in the Paint The game opened with both teams trading baskets inside, with Chicago holding a narrow 10–6 lead at the first timeout. Kamilla Cardoso imposed her presence early, scoring efficiently and cleaning up the glass. She would go on to lead all scorers with 24 points and nearly posted a double-double with nine rebounds. Connecticut responded by tightening its defense and moving the ball more effectively. Lacan set the tone with seven first-quarter points, helping the Sun close the opening frame on a 15–8 run for a 21–18 lead . Second Quarter Sparks Tensions Momentum shifted further in the second quarter as Connecticut’s defense held Chicago to just 10 points, their lowest-scoring second period of the season. A 13–5 Sun run pushed the lead to 40–26 before halftime, with rookies and bench players contributing to the surge. The quarter, however, was overshadowed by a heated altercation involving Bria Hartley of Connecticut and Rebecca Allen of Chicago. After jostling for position, Hartley shoved Allen to the ground, leading to Allen pulling her jersey. Ariel Atkins entered the fray in defense of her teammate, escalating the confrontation. Officials reviewed the incident and ejected all three players, leaving both rosters shorthanded the rest of the way . Sun Build, Then Nearly Collapse Connecticut continued to build on its momentum in the third quarter, stretching its lead to as many as 21 points. Charles carried much of the load in that stretch, scoring 11 of her 15 points in the second half. By the end of the third, the Sun were ahead 60–45 and appeared poised to cruise to victory . But Chicago had other plans. The Sky opened the fourth quarter on an 11–0 run, cutting the deficit to single digits for the first time since early in the second quarter. Elizabeth Williams anchored the comeback effort with a double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Cardoso continued to score in the paint. With just under three minutes remaining, the Sky trimmed the margin to 67–62, putting pressure back on Connecticut . Connecticut Closes the Door Facing another potential collapse, the Sun regained their composure. A timely three-pointer from Charles broke a prolonged scoring drought, and rookie Saniya Rivers provided a critical spark off the bench. Rivers finished with eight points, six assists, three steals, and two blocks, becoming just the eighth rookie in WNBA history to post that versatile stat line. Lacan then added a key layup to seal the game, ensuring the Sun would not squander their lead a second time . Bench Contributions and Defensive Edge One of the most important factors in the win was Connecticut’s bench play. Rivers and Olivia Nelson-Ododa combined for 16 points, while Nelson-Ododa also tied a career high with three steals. In total, the bench contributed 20 points, a notable boost for a team that has struggled with depth. Defensively, the Sun forced 21 Chicago turnovers while committing only six themselves. This disparity gave Connecticut extra possessions and minimized second-chance opportunities for the Sky. Although the Sun struggled from three-point range (just 23.5%), their ability to capitalize on turnovers and get to the free-throw line compensated for the poor outside shooting . Looking Ahead The win was a rare bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for Connecticut. It marked their fifth home victory of the year and showcased the potential of their young roster. For Lacan, stepping into a leading role reflects the growth the Sun hope to build on in the final stretch of the season. For Chicago, the loss highlighted ongoing struggles with depth and consistency, particularly with Angel Reese sidelined due to a back injury. Cardoso and Williams provided strong performances, but the lack of bench production left the Sky vulnerable in the closing minutes. Both teams remain outside of playoff contention, but the spirited contest demonstrated resilience and fight despite their records. The Sun will next host the Indiana Fever, while the Sky aim to regroup before their rematch against Connecticut later this month .

Lynx Extend Winning Streak The Minnesota Lynx secured a crucial road win on Tuesday night, defeating the Washington Mystics 80–76 in a game defined by tight defense, rebounding battles, and clutch scoring. The victory extended Minnesota’s winning streak to three games, moving them further up the Western Conference standings as the playoff picture tightens. Minnesota relied on a balanced offensive attack and aggressive play in the paint to overcome Washington’s strong start. Kayla McBride led the charge with a team-high 21 points, while Napheesa Collier contributed 18 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. The Lynx also benefited from strong bench production, which proved decisive in the closing minutes. Mystics Open Strong Washington began the game with energy, using quick ball movement and perimeter shooting to jump out to an early lead. Ariel Atkins scored eight first-quarter points, while Shakira Austin controlled the paint on both ends, pulling down key rebounds and altering shots. The Mystics’ defense forced the Lynx into several early turnovers, and their transition offense translated those mistakes into points. By the end of the first quarter, Washington held a narrow lead, but Minnesota’s defense began to tighten. The Lynx closed the gap in the second quarter, attacking the rim more aggressively and drawing fouls to slow the Mystics’ momentum. Minnesota Gains Control in the Second Half The third quarter proved pivotal for the Lynx, as they turned a slim halftime deficit into a five-point lead heading into the fourth. Collier’s all-around play fueled the surge, while McBride and Bridget Carleton hit timely shots from beyond the arc to stretch Washington’s defense. Defensively, Minnesota limited the Mystics to just 16 points in the third quarter. They forced difficult mid-range attempts and shut down Washington’s pick-and-roll offense, making it harder for Atkins and Natasha Cloud to create clean looks. Clutch Moments Seal the Win The final period featured multiple lead changes as both teams traded baskets and defensive stops. Washington pulled within one point with under two minutes remaining, but the Lynx responded with back-to-back scores from Carleton and McBride. Minnesota’s free-throw shooting proved critical down the stretch, as they converted six attempts in the final minute to maintain control. The Lynx closed the game on a 7–2 run, stifling Washington’s last possessions with disciplined defense. Key Performers McBride’s scoring efficiency stood out, as she shot over 50% from the field and provided steady offense in critical moments. Collier once again displayed her versatility, impacting the game with her scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. For Washington, Atkins led all scorers with 23 points, while Austin posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Cloud contributed 12 points and six assists, but the Mystics’ overall shooting dipped in the second half, particularly from long range. Bench Contributions Make the Difference One of the deciding factors in the game was Minnesota’s bench production. Carleton’s 10 points and key three-pointer in the fourth quarter provided a spark, while Dorka Juhász added six rebounds and solid defensive work against Washington’s frontcourt. By contrast, the Mystics’ bench was limited to single-digit scoring, which put added pressure on their starters to generate offense throughout the contest. Defensive Discipline While neither team shot exceptionally well from deep, Minnesota’s ability to contest shots without fouling played a big role in the win. The Lynx limited the Mystics to just 12 free-throw attempts, compared to their own 21, which helped offset Washington’s early hot shooting. The Lynx also dominated the turnover battle, forcing 14 Mystics miscues while committing just nine themselves. Those extra possessions proved vital in a game where both teams had stretches of cold shooting. Playoff Implications The win moves Minnesota closer to securing a top playoff seed, as they continue to find ways to close out tight games on the road. The Lynx’s ability to balance inside scoring with perimeter threats gives them flexibility heading into the final weeks of the regular season. For Washington, the loss was a setback in their push for a higher playoff position. While the Mystics remain competitive, they will need to improve their late-game execution and bench scoring to avoid falling behind in the standings. Looking Ahead The Lynx return home for their next matchup, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and solidify their place among the conference’s top contenders. Collier’s leadership and McBride’s scoring touch remain central to their success, while the bench’s continued contributions will be essential against stronger opponents. The Mystics will look to regroup quickly, focusing on maintaining their first-half energy for the full 40 minutes. Their ability to get consistent production beyond Atkins and Austin will be critical as they fight to maintain their playoff positioning. With both teams eyeing the postseason, Tuesday night’s close, physical contest was a preview of the intensity and precision required to advance deep into the playoffs. 

Liberty Hit Season-High in Points The New York Liberty showcased their offensive firepower on Tuesday night, defeating the Los Angeles Sparks 105-97 at Crypto.com Arena. The victory marked the Liberty’s highest point total of the season and tied head coach Sandy Brondello with Richie Adubato for the most wins in franchise history at 100. Emma Meesseman, stepping into a larger role with Breanna Stewart sidelined due to a knee injury, led the way with a season-high 24 points and nine rebounds. Jonquel Jones added a double-double with 21 points and 11 boards, while Leonie Fiebich contributed 20 points on efficient shooting. The balanced scoring effort allowed New York to maintain control late, despite Los Angeles’ interior dominance. Sparks Battle in the Paint The Sparks put up an impressive offensive showing of their own, shooting 46.8% from the field and scoring 52 points in the paint — their highest total in regulation this season. Kelsey Plum led all scorers with 26 points, adding five assists and five rebounds, and tying Nneka Ogwumike’s franchise record for most 20-point games in a single season with 19. Dearica Hamby delivered another strong performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and four steals. Her eight boards also moved her into 26th place on the WNBA’s all-time rebounding list. Azurá Stevens chipped in 17 points, four assists, and three steals while passing Lisa Leslie for sole possession of 10th in franchise history for three-pointers made. Despite those efforts, Los Angeles couldn’t contain New York’s perimeter shooting. The Liberty connected on 14 three-pointers — the most allowed by the Sparks this season — and shot 50% from beyond the arc overall. Game Flow and Key Moments The matchup was tight through much of the night, with neither team able to build a comfortable lead until the closing minutes. Natasha Cloud’s back-to-back layups in the fourth quarter pushed New York’s advantage to 96-85, tying their largest lead of the game. Sabrina Ionescu added a timely layup shortly afterward, and Cloud struck again in the lane to extend the gap to 102-91 with just over a minute left. Los Angeles had opportunities to close the gap but was slowed by the Liberty’s defensive adjustments and zone coverage. New York’s ability to stretch the floor with multiple scoring threats made it difficult for the Sparks to mount a late comeback. Brink’s Early Exit The Sparks suffered a setback late in the first half when sophomore forward Cameron Brink exited with an ankle injury. Brink, who recently returned from a long-term knee injury, did not play in the second half. Head coach Lynne Roberts confirmed that the decision to keep her out was partly due to her ongoing minutes restriction. Without Brink’s defensive presence, Hamby and Stevens anchored the paint, combining for 38 points and 12 rebounds. However, New York capitalized on the absence by attacking inside and continuing their hot shooting from deep. Defensive Challenges for L.A. While the Sparks’ offense performed at a high level, their defense struggled to contain the Liberty’s rhythm. New York shot 55.9% from the field and controlled the pace for much of the second half. The Sparks did win the battle in second-chance points (14-7) and dominated on the fast break (15-0), but those advantages weren’t enough to offset the Liberty’s scoring efficiency. Roberts acknowledged after the game that her team’s defensive energy was not at its peak. Los Angeles had played five games in eight days, a stretch that tested their stamina and focus. Still, the Sparks have been one of the league’s hottest teams since the All-Star break, and they remain in the thick of the playoff race. Liberty’s Depth on Display The win was a testament to New York’s depth, as they overcame the absence of multiple key players, including Stewart, Isabelle Harrison, and Nyara Sabally. Alongside Meesseman, Jones, and Fiebich, Ionescu chipped in 14 points and six assists, and Cloud contributed 11 points with clutch baskets down the stretch. The Liberty’s victory kept them near the top of the Eastern Conference standings and provided a momentum boost after a loss to Minnesota in their previous outing. Looking Ahead The Sparks will aim to regroup quickly as they prepare for another important matchup in their playoff push. Maintaining their offensive efficiency while shoring up defensive lapses will be key as they enter the final stretch of the season. For the Liberty, the performance reinforced their status as a championship contender. With Stewart expected to return before the postseason and role players stepping up in her absence, New York’s versatility and balance remain among the league’s best assets. The 105-97 scoreline reflected not just the Liberty’s ability to light up the scoreboard, but also the Sparks’ resilience in a high-paced, high-stakes game — the kind of intensity both teams will need to replicate in the weeks ahead. 

A Much-Needed Win for Dallas The Dallas Wings snapped a five-game losing streak with an 81-80 road victory over the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The result offered a much-needed morale boost for Dallas, which entered the contest having lost 11 of its last 13 games. For Indiana, the loss marked a missed opportunity to sweep the four-game season series against the Wings. Despite rallying from deficits of 14 and 17 points, the Fever fell just short, dropping to 18-15 on the season. Both teams entered the matchup without key stars — Dallas was missing Arike Ogunbowale due to a knee injury, while Indiana continued to play without Caitlin Clark, sidelined for her 20th game of the year with a groin injury. Early Control for Dallas From the opening tip, Dallas controlled the pace. Maddy Siegrist, making her first start since early June, delivered an aggressive offensive performance that helped the Wings establish an early cushion. Li Yueru provided a strong scoring punch off the bench, giving Dallas versatility in its attack. Indiana showed flashes of momentum in the first half, cutting into the Wings’ lead with a 9-0 run to tie the game at 42 by halftime. However, the third quarter swung back in Dallas’ favor as their ball movement and paint presence allowed them to rebuild their advantage. The Bueckers Factor Paige Bueckers, the first overall pick in this year’s WNBA Draft, had a mixed night statistically but still made a significant impact. She finished with 16 points, eight assists, five rebounds, and two steals, demonstrating her all-around skill set. Though her shooting touch was off — hitting just six of 19 attempts — Bueckers played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Wings’ offense, especially in Ogunbowale’s absence. Her wraparound pass to Myisha Hines-Allen for a three-pointer early in the fourth quarter helped extend Dallas’ lead to 17 points. Bueckers’ performance underscored her growing influence as a rookie, showing poise in managing the game despite a challenging shooting night. Indiana’s Resilience The Fever’s defining trait this season has been their refusal to quit, and that was on display once again. Down 78-61 with under seven minutes to play, Indiana launched a furious rally, scoring 13 straight points to open a game-closing 19-3 run. Kelsey Mitchell spearheaded the comeback, finishing with 24 points and four made three-pointers. Natasha Howard recorded her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Aliyah Boston and Sophie Cunningham each added 14 points. The Fever had a chance to steal the win in the final seconds. After Bueckers missed a jumper with 14 seconds left, Indiana called a timeout with 1.7 seconds remaining. Mitchell’s last-second three-point attempt from the corner, however, hit the side of the backboard. Bench Production and Key Stats For Dallas, the bench was critical in securing the win. Yueru’s 20 points on efficient shooting provided a reliable scoring option in the paint. The Wings’ balanced approach allowed them to weather Indiana’s late push, even as their field goal percentage dipped in the final minutes. Indiana’s defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter forced Dallas into contested shots and turnovers, but the Fever’s late-game surge came just short of erasing the deficit completely. Lessons from the Loss While the Fever have endured adversity all season — including season-ending injuries to Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson — they have also shown measurable improvement from past years. The culture under head coach Christie Sides emphasizes resilience, accountability, and growth, and the team’s repeated comebacks highlight that mindset. Tuesday’s performance reflected both progress and areas for refinement. Defensive lapses in the third quarter and missed opportunities at the rim early in the game created a margin that was too difficult to overcome despite a spirited final push. Looking Ahead The Wings, now 9-24, will try to build on this win when they face the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday. The return of Ogunbowale will be key as they aim to finish the season on a more competitive note. For Indiana, the loss is a setback in their playoff positioning, but their fight to the final whistle reinforces the identity they’ve built. They’ll return to action Friday at home against the Washington Mystics, aiming to turn lessons from this narrow defeat into a stronger performance. In the broader context of the WNBA’s late-season playoff race, Tuesday’s game was a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing — and how even in a low-scoring quarter, one possession can decide the outcome.

Hamby’s Late Heroics Seal the Win The Los Angeles Sparks claimed a crucial 94-91 victory over the Seattle Storm on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, fueled by a clutch performance from Dearica Hamby in the game’s final moments. The win was another step forward in the Sparks’ late-season playoff push, as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings. Hamby delivered seven of the Sparks’ final nine points, including the decisive three-point play with just over five seconds left. Her poise under pressure capped off a back-and-forth second half where neither team led by more than eight points. Seattle had tied the game at 91 with under 13 seconds remaining, but Los Angeles executed on the next possession, finding Hamby inside for the go-ahead basket and free throw. The victory pushed the Sparks to 15-16 on the season, while the Storm dropped to 16-16 amid a five-game losing streak. Overcoming a Slow Start The Sparks stumbled early, falling behind 26-14 after the first quarter. Seattle’s aggressive offense, led by Brittney Sykes’ hot shooting, put Los Angeles on its heels. However, the home team quickly adjusted. In the second quarter, the Sparks surged back with a 32-14 advantage, swinging momentum in their favor and taking a 46-40 lead into halftime. Crisp ball movement, improved defensive rotations, and timely three-point shooting fueled the turnaround. The game’s final two quarters became a showcase of scoring runs and defensive counters, with eight ties in the second half alone. Seattle briefly took control late in the fourth, leading 87-80 with under three minutes left, but Los Angeles refused to fold. Balanced Offensive Attack Kelsey Plum led the Sparks’ scoring effort with 20 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, marking her 18th game this season with at least 20 points — tying her for the second-most in franchise history for a single season. Her improved efficiency since the return of point guard Julie Allemand has helped balance the Sparks’ offensive flow. Hamby’s 19 points came on 8-for-13 shooting, and she added seven rebounds, two blocks, and two assists. Azurá Stevens contributed 15 points and matched a season milestone for three-pointers made by a player her size, going a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. She also led the team with eight rebounds. Rookie Cameron Brink delivered a spark off the bench, scoring a season-high 14 points in just 11 minutes while matching her season highs in rebounds and steals. The Sparks’ reserves combined for 26 points, hitting 60% from the field and 71% from long range. Seattle’s Strong Effort Falls Short The Storm showcased offensive depth, with Brittney Sykes pouring in 27 points and Dominique Malonga adding 20 off the bench. Skylar Diggins chipped in 17 points, while Nneka Ogwumike posted 15. Despite their scoring output, Seattle could not slow the Sparks’ three-point shooting. Los Angeles connected on a season-high 14 triples, many of them coming at pivotal moments to swing momentum. The loss marked another narrow defeat for the Storm, who have now dropped five consecutive games — all by four points or fewer — as they slip toward the edge of the playoff picture. Playoff Race Heating Up With the victory, the Sparks have now won nine of their last 11 games since the All-Star break, joining the Minnesota Lynx as one of the league’s hottest teams in that span. Their resurgence comes after a 6-14 start to the season and has been fueled by a stable starting lineup featuring Allemand, Hamby, Rickea Jackson, Plum, and Stevens. While Los Angeles has found offensive consistency, defense remains an area of concern. The Sparks currently allow a league-worst 87.8 points per game, but the return of Brink is expected to bolster rim protection and help limit opponents in the paint. Seattle, meanwhile, is locked in a tight battle with Los Angeles, Golden State, and Washington for the final playoff spots. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against top teams like the Lynx, Liberty, and Dream, the Storm’s margin for error is slim. Looking Ahead The Sparks will have little time to celebrate their win as they prepare for another high-profile matchup during Rivalry Week, hosting the New York Liberty on Tuesday night. With their offense firing and playoff hopes within reach, they aim to build on their recent success. Seattle faces the challenge of regaining momentum quickly, knowing that their playoff fate may hinge on snapping their current losing streak. Finding late-game composure and defensive stops will be crucial if they hope to reverse their slide. Sunday’s thrilling contest underscored the intensity of the final stretch of the WNBA regular season. For the Sparks, it was a statement that they can win the close ones — a quality they’ll need if they want to turn a late-season run into a postseason berth.

A Key Road Victory in a Tight Race The Atlanta Dream continued their impressive late-season surge with a 74-66 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday at PHX Arena. The victory marked Atlanta’s fifth consecutive triumph, improving their record to 20-11 and solidifying their position among the Eastern Conference’s top contenders. This matchup was the third meeting between the two teams this season, with Atlanta already holding a decisive edge from earlier games. Despite being on the road and facing a Phoenix squad eager to climb in the standings, the Dream once again found ways to impose their style of play, mixing strong defense with timely scoring. Fast Start, Midgame Challenge Atlanta wasted little time establishing control, building a 36-19 lead midway through the second quarter. Brionna Jones powered the early surge with scoring in the paint, while Naz Hillmon and Allisha Gray provided balance from multiple areas on the court. The Mercury, however, closed the first half strong, using a 15-3 run to cut the deficit to 39-34 at halftime. Phoenix’s defensive pressure and improved ball movement in the closing minutes of the half disrupted Atlanta’s rhythm. The Mercury’s rally was fueled by opportunistic shooting from the perimeter and better execution in transition, even though they still struggled to convert fast-break opportunities into consistent points. Momentum Shifts in the Second Half The third quarter opened with Phoenix seizing its first lead of the game at 48-46, sparked by a pair of baskets and defensive stops. The advantage, however, was short-lived. Atlanta responded with a quick scoring burst, reclaiming the lead with a combination of free throws, perimeter shooting, and inside finishes. By the end of the quarter, the Dream were back in control, holding a narrow advantage heading into the final period. In the fourth quarter, Allisha Gray emerged as the difference-maker. After being limited to seven points through three quarters, she scored 10 in the final stretch, knocking down critical shots to keep Phoenix at bay. Hillmon and Jones continued to dominate the boards, combining for 24 rebounds on the night. Impact of Injuries and Ejections The game took a dramatic turn late in the third quarter when Atlanta guard Jordin Canada suffered a non-contact injury while driving to the basket. She was carried to the locker room and did not return, finishing with 13 points, including two made three-pointers. Minutes later, in the fourth quarter, Rhyne Howard was ejected after a confrontation stemming from a blocking foul. The sequence forced Atlanta to finish the game without two of its primary backcourt players, putting added pressure on Gray, Hillmon, and Jones to maintain composure and production. Key Performers Atlanta’s success was built on balanced contributions. Gray led the team with 17 points, showing poise in late-game situations. Jones posted a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Hillmon matched that with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Canada’s efficient scoring before her injury gave the Dream a needed lift in the first three quarters. For Phoenix, Alyssa Thomas delivered a standout performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. DeWanna Bonner provided scoring off the bench with 16 points. However, the Mercury’s other primary scorers, including Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally, struggled to find their shooting touch, combining for just six made field goals on 26 attempts. Areas of Struggle for the Mercury The Mercury’s inability to convert fast-break chances proved costly. They failed to score in transition during the first half and finished the game with just seven fast-break points, compared to Atlanta’s nine. Missed opportunities in open space and lapses in defensive coverage allowed the Dream to regain control after Phoenix briefly took the lead. Shooting inefficiency also hindered Phoenix’s chances. Despite cutting down turnovers and creating good looks, they could not sustain a high enough shooting percentage to match Atlanta’s timely scoring. Looking Ahead With the win, Atlanta remains one of the hottest teams in the league, having found ways to adapt even when facing adversity. The Dream’s depth, rebounding dominance, and defensive resilience will be critical as they continue their push toward playoff positioning. Phoenix, now 19-12, missed a chance to climb higher in the Western Conference standings. With four days before their next game against the Las Vegas Aces, the Mercury will focus on recovering physically and addressing their offensive inconsistencies.  If these two teams meet again in the postseason, Sunday’s game provided a preview of what could be a physical and tightly contested series — one in which Atlanta has already proven it can handle the pressure and secure wins both at home and on the road.