Atlanta Dream Advances Closer to WNBA Finals
In an electrifying atmosphere on Wednesday, the Atlanta Dream continued their flawless postseason journey. They edged closer to their first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013, thanks to Naz Hillmon’s clutch layup with just 20.8 seconds left in overtime, securing a 101-98 win against the New York Liberty and taking a 2-0 lead in the semifinal series.
Angel Reese, who will likely be in the running for the 2026 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, led the scoring for Atlanta with 23 points. She was crucial in overtime, contributing six of the team’s 13 points in that period. After a crucial mishap by Sabrina Ionescu, Reese also sunk two free throws with under five seconds remaining, ensuring the Dream maintained their lead over the defending champions. Jordin Canada matched Reese’s output with 23 points and dished out eight assists, building on their Game 1 victory where they won 92-82.
Breanna Stewart from the Liberty was the standout performer for her team, pouring in 35 points but unfortunately missed a last-ditch effort on the final play of the game.
As the clock wound down to the final minutes, the Liberty found themselves trailing 86-80. A massive 3-pointer from Ionescu narrowed the deficit to three, creating some excitement. A shot-clock violation from the Dream allowed New York another shot, and Stewart took advantage, finishing with a layup to close the gap to just one point at 86-85.
The Dream faced a setback as Allisha Gray, their leading scorer, could not participate in Game 2 due to a hand injury, an unfortunate moment for a key player. This was the first game Gray missed this season, a noticeable absence that could have made a difference.
Gray got hurt during the first quarter of Game 1, and though she returned briefly after treatment, she exited again after a dive for a loose ball and didn’t come back.
As they prepare for Game 3, the Dream are hopeful for Gray’s return; she is currently listed as day-to-day. Game 3 will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
