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Atlanta Dream Overpowers Second Ranked Connecticut Suns

Atlanta Dream Extends Post-Olympic Winning Streak to Two Games: The Atlanta Dream defeated the second-ranked Connecticut Sun with a decisive 19-2 run in the fourth quarter, showcasing their resilience and determination in the WNBA season.

Atlanta, GA – August 19, 2024

The Atlanta Dream extended their post-Olympic break winning streak to two games after a hard-fought victory over the second-ranked Connecticut Sun on Sunday. The Sun, who entered Gateway Arena with an 18-6 record and a number two WNBA ranking, faced a determined Dream squad fresh off a win against the Seattle Storm.

Although the Sun won the opening tip-off, but Atlanta quickly set the pace with a top-of-the-key three-pointer from Rhyne Howard scored six points in the first quarter while Tina Charles matched her with six points, added five rebounds to her tally, as Atlanta outpaced Connecticut in fast-break points, 5-2. The Dream led by as many as seven points during the opening period, with Marina Mabrey’s layup finally putting the Sun on the board at the 6:55 mark. However, a scare came when Cheyenne Parker-Tyus took a hard fall and had to be assisted to the locker room with five minutes remaining in the quarter.

In the second quarter, the Atlanta Dream seized control with a 12-4 run spearheaded by Jordin Canada, who contributed six points, two assists, and created four additional points from her assists in just five minutes. Charles added five more points as the Dream dominated the paint, outscoring the Sun 12-6 and forcing 10 turnovers while committing only six turnovers themselves. Atlanta also recorded six steals in the first half, including two by Howard. The Dream had a five-point lead at the half.

Tina Charles releases jump shot over three Sun defenders.

The Dream maintained their lead throughout the third quarter, bolstered by eight points from Canada and five from Charles. Despite Connecticut trimming the lead to just one point with four minutes left, Atlanta responded with three consecutive three-pointers—two from Canada and one from Charles—giving the Dream a seven-point cushion heading into the final quarter. The Dream continued to dominate in transition, outscoring the Sun 7-0 in fast break points.

In the fourth quarter, the Sun briefly tooked the lead, 68-63, but Atlanta countered with a decisive 19-2 run. Alisha Gray, who scored seven of her 11 points in the final period, ignited the run with a basket and a bonus point. In the final minute, Charles secured a crucial jump ball at midcourt, passing it to Gray, who found Howard for a three-pointer that pushed the Dream’s lead to six. Canada and Charles then sealed the victory by going 2-for-2 from the free throw line, as the Dream shot an impressive 10-for-11 as a team in the fourth.

With this win, the Atlanta Dream showcased their resilience and determination, toppling one of the league’s top ranked teams and solidifying their momentum as the season progresses.

Naz Hillmon puts up shot against three Sun defenders, Marina Mabry, Brionna Jones & Tyasha Harris

Next up for the Atlanta Dream is the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday, August 21, and Friday, August 23. As of August 19, 2024, the WNBA has the Mercury ranked sixth in the nation and fourth in the WNBA Western Conference at 15-13. The Phoenix team won two of its last three matches by double digits. The Mercury has momentum and confidence at their backs.

When head coach Tanisha Wright was asked with two days to prepare for Phoenix, how do you keep the team’s confidence up? “They will take a day off for sure, the day off will allow their bodies to repair, then we will prepare like we prepare for any other team. We will focus on ourselves and look at anything that we need to cleanup. Then focus on the challenges that Phoenix presents, but most of all focusing on ourselves.”

Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Celebrates 40 Years of Tradition and Excellence

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates its 40th anniversary with a Legacy Tour stop in Conyers, Georgia, honoring Black cowboy culture and history with thrilling events and a $200,000 prize purse.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | August 4, 2024

The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR), widely celebrated as “The Greatest Show on Dirt,” made a Legacy Tour stop at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, Georgia, this past weekend, marking its 40th anniversary with three sold-out performances. The rodeo, which took place on August 3rd and 4th, showcased a dazzling array of events and underscored its ongoing commitment to honoring Black cowboy culture and history. The BPIR’s Legacy Tour, travels across the United States, bringing its unique blend of history and excitement to new and returning audiences.

The Conyers stop included two thrilling shows on Saturday and a final, exhilarating performance on Sunday. Audiences were treated to a spectacular lineup featuring Ranch Bronc and Bareback Riding, Bull Dogging, Lady’s Barrel Racing and Breakaway, Lady’s Steer Undercoating, and the crowd favorites, Junior Barrel Racing and Peewee Barrel Racing. The weekend’s events highlighted the rodeo’s rich tradition but also the diverse skills of its participants, leaving the audience in awe of their talent and dedication.

Founded in 1984 by the late Lu Vason, the BPIR has become a hallmark of rodeo entertainment and cultural celebration. Vason, a native of Berkeley, California, and a trailblazing figure in event marketing brought over 50 years of experience to his innovative venture. His move to Denver in 1977 set the stage for creating the BPIR, inspired by his experiences at the Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming and his discovery of Bill Pickett’s legacy at the Black American West Museum of History.

Valeria Howard Cunningham, President and Chief Executive Officer, was elevated to the helm after the passing of her husband, Mr. Vason. Under her leadership and guidance, the BPIR, the only touring Black rodeo, continues growing in size, scope, education, and entertainment value. When asked why the tour does not go to every major city, she said, “I would love to be able to go everywhere. This is a huge ship that we have to turn. We try to look at those cities that have large populations that look like us and have first class facilities that we can offer a first-class rodeo.

The whole reason the BPIR exists is because of the Black cowboys and cowgirls. We have four and five generations of cowboys and cowgirls that have traveled with us the last forty years. And that’s because we have elevated their presence in the community. People did not know that there were Black cowboys and cowgirls. We’ve created the platforms for them to perform and reach higher levels in this rodeo sport.

I am so excited and proud of these cowboys and cowgirls, especially our little peewees, who are three to five years old and already participating in the rodeos. I think we are building a foundation for them so that one day they will be running this rodeo.”

Willie M. Pickett (Bill Pickett), a pioneering figure in rodeo history, is credited with developing steer wrestling, also known as bulldogging. Born in 1870 in Travis County, Texas, Pickett and his brothers formed the Pickett Brothers Bronco Busters and Rough Riders. They gained fame for their expertise in taming wild cattle. Pickett’s contributions laid the groundwork for the rodeo traditions the BPIR celebrates today.

The BPIR’s Legacy Tour’s final event will feature a significant increase in prize money. Contestants are competing for a total of $200,000. This year’s prize purse marks a historic achievement for the BPIR, representing the most significant sum ever offered by a Black-owned rodeo. Contestants qualify for this prestigious event through top placement at rodeos held in Memphis, TN; Oakland, CA; Los Angeles, CA; Denver, CO; and Conyers, GA (Atlanta). At the final bell, over 280 cowboys will have participated, each vying for a share of the substantial prize money.

Acynthia Villery, a key figure in the BPIR’s history, has been with the rodeo for over 37 years. As the Social Media Director and the first African American female rodeo announcer with the Bill Pickett Rodeo, Villery’s contributions have been instrumental in the organization’s success. “This milestone year is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the BPIR,

Villery said. We’re thrilled to celebrate 40 years of rodeo excellence and cultural pride.”

Throughout its history, the BPIR has served not only as a premier rodeo but also as a cultural event that educates and entertains. It provides a platform for families to embrace and enjoy cowboy culture while learning about the contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to the American West. By highlighting these stories and celebrating this vibrant tradition, the BPIR continues to make history with every performance, leaving the audience feeling enlightened and entertained.

The BPIR’s Legacy Tour, celebrating four decades of education and entertainment, travels across the United States, bringing its unique blend of history and excitement to new and returning audiences.

“A testament to the richness in tradition and appeal is the fact that many families plan their vacations and family reunions around the BPIR dates and schedule,” said Margo Wade-Ladreww, National Development/Sponsorship Director.

The Legacy Tour will culminate at the 5,800 seat Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro, MD, on September 20-21, 2024. Both Saturday shows are already sold out.

This final event of the tour promises to be a grand conclusion to a landmark year, highlighting the enduring appeal of Black cowboy culture and the BPIR’s role in preserving and celebrating this vital heritage.

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Atlanta Dream Partners with Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for Annual Backpack Drive

tlanta Dream Teams Up with Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for Annual Backpack Drive: Equip students with new backpacks and school supplies, featuring a mini-resource fair, voter registration, and more, on July 31 at Gateway Center Arena in Atlanta, GA.

Atlanta, GA – July 29, 2024

The Atlanta Dream is teaming up with the Barack and Michelle Obama Academy for their Annual Backpack Drive. They are equipping students in the metro Atlanta area with the necessary resources to start the school year. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 31, from 9 a.m. to noon at 970 Martin St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.

This year’s initiative is a testament to the Dream’s unwavering commitment to community support. The Dream collected new backpacks during three home games at the Gateway Center Arena and welcomed online donations. Students attending the event will receive a new backpack filled with school supplies, and teachers will be given additional supplies to enhance their classroom environments.

In addition to the backpacks, the event will feature the Atlanta Fulton Public Library Bookmobile, which will allow students to get a new book for the first day of school. The Dream will also host a mini-resource fair, including a voter registration table, health and wellness resources, and more.

Key partners contributing to the event include:

Jim Ellis Buick GMC Atlanta – school supplies.

HoneyPot – school supplies and resources for parents.

Zaxby’s – food for families and staff.

Atlanta Fulton Public Library Bookmobile – available to provide new library books and assist with parent library card registrations.

Founded in 2006, the Atlanta Dream is the only Womens National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise in the Southeast. They currently play their home games at the Gateway Center Arena, College Park, GA. The team, featured on Peachtree TV and Peachtree Sports Network, boasts a record of 11 WNBA All-Stars, three first-place regular-season finishes, nine playoff appearances, and three WNBA finals appearances.

For more information about the Atlanta Dream, visit dream.wnba.com and follow them on social media @AtlantaDream on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.

WNBA All-Star 2024: Dream’s Allisha Gray wins both the Skills Challenge and 3-Point Contest

Allisha Gray Makes History at WNBA All-Star Weekend: Gray wins both the Kia Skills Challenge and the WNBA STARRY 3-Point Contest, earning $115,150 and cementing her status as a standout in basketball.

Atlanta, GA – July 20, 2024

In a thrilling display of skill and precision, Allisha Gray of the Atlanta Dream soared to victory in two competitions at the WNBA All-Star weekend. The festivities at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ, showcased Gray’s exceptional talent across multiple disciplines, cementing her status as a standout in basketball.

The Kia Skills Challenge, a rigorous test of fundamental basketball abilities, featured a timed obstacle course designed to challenge participants with tasks such as dribbling, bounce passes, and three-point shooting from various spots on the court. Gray navigated these challenges with finesse, ultimately clinching victory in this highly competitive event.

Adding to her accolades, Gray also triumphed in the WNBA STARRY® 3-Point Contest, where sharpshooters compete to sink shots from designated spots around the arc. Her precision and consistency were unmatched, securing her a historic win as the first player in WNBA history to conquer both the Skills Challenge and the 3-Point Contest in the same year.

Allisha Gray’s performance in the two competitions was exceptional. Her ability to excel in the Skills Challenge and the 3-Point Contest underscores her versatility and dedication to the game.

Gray’s journey to WNBA stardom began in 2017 when she was drafted fourth overall by the Dallas Wings, a pivotal moment in her career when the rookie salary stood at $51,591. Fast forward to today, and Gray’s stellar performance at the 2024 All-Star event has earned her a prize of $115,150. By winning both contests, Gray’s Allstar earnings are 62% of her 2024 WNBA salary of $185,000. Winners of each event received $2,575 from the league and $55,000 from Aflac in sponsorship deals, highlighting the significant growth and recognition of women’s basketball

As the WNBA continues to grow in popularity and recognition, athletes like Allisha Gray serve as inspirations both on and off the court, pushing boundaries and breaking records with each game. Her triumphs at the All-Star weekend will elevate her career and shine a spotlight on the immense talent within the league.

With her dual victories at the forefront, Allisha Gray has etched her name in WNBA history, marking a milestone that will be remembered for years to come.

Dallas Wings Edge Atlanta Dream in Thrilling Matchup

Dallas Wings edge Atlanta Dream 84-82 in high-intensity WNBA matchup, with Arike Ogunbowale and Odyssey Sims leading the Wings to a crucial win and improving their season record to 5-16.

Dallas, TX – July 5, 2024

In a high-octane battle at the College Park Center, the Dallas Wings narrowly defeated the Atlanta Dream with a final score of 84-82 on Friday night. The game, which saw both teams missing key players due to injuries, unfolded as a testament to perseverance and skill on the court.

The Atlanta Dream entered the contest aiming to bounce back from their previous loss to the Chicago Sky, but faced a tough challenge without star player Jordin Canada, sidelined with a broken finger sustained against the New York Liberty on June 30th. Adding to the pre-game dynamics, the Dream bolstered their roster by signing Destanni Henderson to a seven-day hardship contract. Henderson, a former Indiana Fever draft pick and participant in the Dream’s preseason, injected energy into the lineup.

Meanwhile, the Wings, with a record of 4-16 entering the game, capitalized on home court advantage and opened strong with early baskets from Odyssey Sims and Jacy Sheldon. Both teams battled intensely in the first quarter, ending with the Wings holding a slight lead at 20-16.

The second quarter saw a resurgence from Atlanta, fueled by Haley Jones’ aggressive play and effective shooting. Jones, along with Alisha Gray and Tina Charles, led a charge that saw the Dream shooting 53% from the floor, narrowly trailing the Wings 42-41 at halftime.

Jacey Sheldon continued to shine for Dallas in the third quarter, hitting crucial three-pointers to keep the momentum on the Wings’ side. However, Atlanta staged a comeback led by Tina Charles, reclaiming the lead briefly before Dallas’ Arike Ogunbowale responded with a clutch three-pointer. The quarter ended with Atlanta narrowly ahead, 61-60, setting the stage for a tense final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Tina Charles secured a crucial layup to give the Dream a 67-65 lead, a pivotal moment in the game. This basket also marked a significant personal milestone for Charles, as it propelled her into third place on the All-Time Leading Scorers list with an impressive total of 7,381 points.

The teams traded baskets and fouls in a tightly contested battle. Odyssey Sims emerged as a key player for Dallas, scoring key points down the stretch, including a crucial three-pointer and a steal that shifted momentum in favor of the Wings. Despite a valiant effort by Atlanta in the closing seconds, including a last-minute basket by Haley Jones, Dallas managed to hold on for the 84-82 victory.

The win improved Dallas’ record to 5-16, while Atlanta’s record dropped to 7-12 for the season. Despite shooting an impressive 66.7% from the field and showing resilience throughout, Atlanta struggled with turnovers, tallying a season-high 28 for the game.

The game showcased the competitive spirit and determination of both teams, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer. For the Atlanta Dream, the loss serves as motivation heading into their next matchups as they continue to strive for success in the competitive landscape of the WNBA.

Game Stats Atlanta Dallas

Filed goals 34/61 31/69

3-Point range 2/6 7/21

Assists 23 21

Points in the paint 56 38

Video courtesy of WBNA Atlanta Dream

Willie Mays, Baseball Legend and Hall of Famer, Passes Away at 93

Baseball Legend Willie Mays Passes Away: Willie Mays, a Hall of Famer and baseball icon, passed away at 93. His legacy as a pioneer, icon, and gentleman of the game will forever be cherished by fans and players alike.

Atlanta, GA – June 19, 2024

Willie Howard Mays, a titan of baseball whose Major League career spanned decades and impact transcended the sport itself, passed away peacefully at home, as confirmed by his son Michael Mays, in a statement released by the San Francisco Giants.

Born in Westfield, Alabama, on May 6, 1931, to Ann and Willie Howard Mays, Sr., Willie Mays began his illustrious baseball journey at a remarkably young age. By the time he was 15, Mays was already making a name for himself playing with the Birmingham Black Barons in the Negro Leagues.

Commissioner of Baseball Robert D. Manfred, Jr. expressed the sentiments of the entire baseball community, stating, “All of Major League Baseball is in mourning today as we are gathered at the very ballpark where a career and a legacy like no other began.” He was referring to the game scheduled for Thursday, June 20, 2024 between the San Francisco Giants and St. Louis Cardinals at Birmingham’s Rickwood Field, a tribute to Mays’ incomparable career.

Mays’ contributions to the game were vast and enduring. He emerged as a star with the New York Giants and later the San Francisco Giants, winning the National League most valuable player (MVP) in 1954 and leading his team to a World Series victory with his iconic “Catch” in the Polo Grounds. Mays earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including 24 All-Star selections, 12 Gold Glove Awards, and two MVP titles. In 2015, he was rightfully honored as one of the game’s greatest living players. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom later that year.

At the time of his passing, Willie Mays held the distinction of being the oldest living Hall of Famer, a title he inherited in 2021 upon the death of Tommy Lasorda. Shortstop Luis Aparicio, aged 90, now holds that honor.

Mays’ impact extended beyond statistics and awards; he helped redefine the role of center fielders, making it one of the game’s most glamorous positions alongside contemporaries like Mickey Mantle and Duke Snider. His prowess as a power hitter and base-stealer set new standards, becoming the first player to exceed 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases in 1969.

Willie Mays’ legacy as a pioneer, icon, and gentleman of the game will forever be cherished by fans and players alike. His influence on baseball and society at large remains indelible, a testament to his enduring greatness.

Atlanta Dream Falls Short Against New York Liberty

Atlanta Dream Falls Short to New York Liberty in Thrilling WNBA Matchup: The Dream struggled to find their rhythm, ultimately losing 78-61, despite a valiant effort, and now holds a 4-4 record for the season.

Atlanta, GA – June 7, 2024

In a highly anticipated matchup at the Gateway Arena, the Atlanta Dream hosted the New York Liberty on Thursday, June 6, 2024, before a sellout crowd. The Liberty entered the game boasting a four-game winning streak and an impressive 8-2 record, while the Dream, at 4-3, sought to regain momentum after recent setbacks.

The stage was set for an intense showdown as Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones spearheaded the Liberty’s offense, averaging an impressive 51.30 points per game collectively. The Liberty’s starting lineup, rounded out by Betnijah Laney-Hamilton and Kayla Thornton, showcased formidable talent.

Meanwhile, the Dream took to the court with Haley Jones, Alisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, and Tina Charles in their starting lineup, a combination they’ve deployed eight times this season.

The game kicked off with Jonquel Jones notching the first basket at the 8:32 mark of the first quarter, followed by a spirited 8-0 run from the Liberty. The quarter ended with the Liberty leading 15-12, setting the stage for a closely contested battle.

The Dream surged in the second quarter, with Arieal Powers sinking a crucial three-pointer to tie the game at 17. However, the Liberty maintained their composure, closing the half with a 38-32 advantage.

The Dream faced adversity in the third quarter as the game progressed, struggling to find their rhythm on offense. Despite Alisha Gray’s efforts, the team trailed by as many as 13 points before rallying to end the quarter 55-48.

In the final stretch, the Liberty maintained their lead, capitalizing on key plays from players like Fiebich and Jonquel Jones. Despite a valiant effort from the Dream, they ultimately fell short, with the final score standing at 78-61 in favor of the Liberty.

Notable highlights from the game included the Dream’s impressive 100% free-throw shooting in the first and second quarters, which showcased their efficiency from the line.

With this loss, the Dream holds a 4-4 record for the season and will look to bounce back as they travel to Chicago for their next matchup on Saturday.

The game provided fans with thrilling moments and showcased the competitive spirit of both teams as they continue to vie for success in the WNBA.

Mason Mill Park unveils its new mural

Mason Mill Park Mural Unveiling: A vibrant mural, painted by Jermaine Clark, was unveiled at Mason Mill Park in Decatur, GA, showcasing community investment in public art and symbolizing unity and inclusivity in the park’s landscape.

Decatur, GA – June 4, 2024

On Saturday, June 1, 2024, Mason Mill Park in Decatur celebrated its new mural’s much-anticipated unveiling and ribbon cutting. The event drew a lively crowd, with Commissioner Michelle Long Spears of DeKalb County District 2 expressing her excitement about the project’s completion.

Left to right: DeKalb Director of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Chuck Ellis, Commissioner Michelle Long Spears of DeKalb County District 2, Atlanta-based artist Jermaine Clark

The mural, painted by Atlanta-based artist Jermaine Clark, is a striking addition to the park, showcasing vibrant colors and captivating imagery. Funded by the DeKalb District 2 Park Bond, the mural is more than just a decorative piece; it is a testament to the community investment’s power in public art. The artwork enriches the park’s aesthetic while symbolizing unity and inclusivity.

The unveiling event marked the culmination of a journey that began with public engagement meetings organized by the community and Clark. Over four months, ideas were shared and visions crafted, resulting in a collective masterpiece that now adorns the park’s landscape.

Park visitor Laurie shows excitement for the new mural

Steeped in history, this park, is a testament to our community’s commitment to providing a space for everyone to enjoy. It offers miles of paved wooded trails for walking and running, a large playground with multiple climbing structures for children, a community garden, and a Recreation Center. It is also home to the DeKalb Tennis Center, which features tennis and pickle ball facilities.

Just minutes from downtown Decatur, Mason Mill Park is steeped in history. In the 1850s, Ezekiel Mason built a flour mill on the bank of Burnt Fork Creek near where it flows into the south fork of Peachtree Creek. This mill is the namesake of both Mason Mill Road and Mason Mill Park.

Atlanta Dream Triumphs Over Washington Mystics in Hard-Fought Battle

The Atlanta Dream defeated the winless Washington Mystics 73-69, with Alisha Gray scoring 19 points and Tina Charles contributing 17 points and 15 rebounds in the impressive road victory.

Atlanta, GA – May 30, 2024

In a highly anticipated road trip, the Atlanta Dream faced off against the Washington Mystics on Wednesday night. The game began with a quick start from Atlanta, as Alisha Gray nailed a three-pointer to put the Dream on the board first. The initial five minutes of the first quarter saw a flurry of action, with both teams trading buckets, fouls, and turnovers.

Parker-Tyus was fouled with seven minutes remaining in the first quarter and successfully sank the free throw. By the 3:30 mark, the score was tied at 15-15. However, the Mystics managed to edge ahead, finishing the first quarter with a 22-18 lead. This marked another game where the Dream failed to win the first quarter this season.

The second quarter was a stark contrast to the first. With seven minutes left, the Mystics had only managed to score two points, while the Dream had added four. The teams were tied at 24 points each with 5:53 remaining in the quarter. Gray’s three-pointer with 1:38 left on the clock pulled Atlanta ahead. The Dream went on a 10-0 run to dominate the second quarter, outscoring the Mystics 20-12 and leading 38-34 at halftime. Gray delivered a stellar performance, scoring 14 points in the first half. Tina Charles made a significant impact off the bench, contributing 10 points and eight rebounds in the second quarter alone.

The third quarter saw four lead changes and a tie by the 7:35 mark. Both teams displayed excellent ball movement as they started the second half. Mystics’ Akins showcased her tenacity by fighting for the ball and scoring underneath the basket. With three minutes left in the third, Rhyne Howard went coast-to-coast for her first bucket of the game, drawing a foul. Despite a review request by the Mystics, the call stood, and Howard tied the game at 48-48 with her free throw. Aerial Powers then ignited the Dream fans with a three-pointer, but spirited play from Shakira Austin kept the game tight. The quarter ended with the teams tied at 54-54.

The fourth quarter began with the score knotted, turning the game into a race to the finish. Both teams traded buckets early on, with Atkins scoring for the Mystics to give them a brief lead. Powers was sent to the free throw line for three shots but missed them all with eight minutes left. A crucial block by Stefanie Dolson energized the Mystics with six minutes to play. However, a steal and basket by Gray highlighted the Dream’s defensive prowess, bringing their total to nine steals for the game.

Late in the quarter, Parker-Tyus put the Dream ahead by five points as Atlanta went on a 10-2 run. Despite Austin’s poise in knocking down two free throws with about 2:20 remaining, the Dream held their ground. Howard was sent to the line twice in the final seconds, making all four free throws to seal the victory. The last two minutes were marked by physical play in the paint, but the Dream emerged victorious.

The Mystics remain winless with a record of 0-7, while the Dream improved to 3-2. The Mystics will next face the New York Liberty. Meanwhile, the Dream will take on the reigning champions, Las Vegas Aces, at the Gateway Center Arena on Friday.

Tina Charles, with her stellar performance, finished the game with 17 points, shooting 7/11 from the floor, and grabbing 15 rebounds. Alisha Gray, with her impressive shooting, contributed 19 points, shooting 7/9, including 4 of 6 from three-point range. Aerial Powers added 12 points and 5 rebounds, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus scored 10 points, and Rhyne Howard chipped in with 11 points. Five players from the Dream scored in double figures, showcasing their balanced attack and team effort in this impressive road win.

Dream’s Effort Falls Short Against Lynx: Kayla McBride Leads Minnesota to Victory

Atlanta Dream Falls to Minnesota Lynx in Hard-Fought Battle. Rhyne Howard shines with 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, but McBride’s 31 points lead the Lynx to a 92-79 victory.

Atlanta, GA – May 27, 2024

In a hard-fought battle on Sunday, May 26, the Atlanta Dream faced off against the Minnesota Lynx. Despite the loss, the Dream showed remarkable resilience, especially with a standout performance from Rhyne Howard. The final score stood at 92-79 in favor of the Lynx, but the Dream’s determination was evident throughout.

Howard, of the Atlanta Dream, showcased her versatility throughout the game, spending 34 minutes on the court and contributing 23 points, five rebounds, and 5 assists. Her performance was truly impressive. On the other side, McBride’s dominant performance for the Lynx, leading all players with an impressive 31 points, was a sight to behold.

The game started with Howard sinking a 3-pointer for the Dream’s first shot, demonstrating their early determination. The Dream exhibited poise during the first quarter with solid ball movement and numerous shot attempts. They maintained an efficient two-point field goal percentage, sinking 9 out of 12 attempts. At the same time, the Lynx struggled slightly from two-point range, making only 4 out of 8 shots, but made up for it with 3-pointers.

Despite a strong showing from the Dream in the first quarter, the Lynx maintained their lead, at the end of each quarter throughout the game. The Lynx outscored the Dream in the first three quarters. The third quarter, in particular, saw the Lynx’s dominance, with McBride leading the charge and Napheesa Collier contributing significantly.

The Dream mounted a comeback in the fourth quarter, outscoring the Lynx 20-15, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit. Howard again led the Dream in scoring, with support from Tina Charles, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, and others.

Looking ahead, the Dream, with a 2-2 record, will face the winless Mystics on Wednesday, May 29. This match promises to be an exciting one. Meanwhile, the Lynx, buoyed by their victory, will host the Las Vegas Aces on the same day and the Phoenix Mercury on Friday, May 31. These upcoming matches are definitely ones to watch.

Cheryl Reaves, the Lynx’s head coach, entered the game with an impressive record and a wealth of experience, having been named WNBA Coach of the Year three times. Her leadership undoubtedly contributed to the Lynx’s victory, further solidifying their position as contenders in the league.