The Atlanta Dream have punched their ticket to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013, securing a hard fought 85-83 victory over the New York Liberty to complete a semifinal sweep. Angel Reese proved to be the difference maker in a physical clash, pouring in 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds while holding her own against Jonquel Jones in the paint. Reese dominated early with 18 of those points coming in the first half, providing the spark needed to keep Atlanta ahead for much of the contest despite missing Allisha Gray due to a hand injury.
It was nearly a fairy tale ending for the Liberty, who refused to go quietly at the Barclays Center. After falling behind by 12 points in the third quarter, New York mounted a fierce comeback led by Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, who both finished with 26 points. A sudden 17-4 run shifted the momentum entirely and put the Liberty in front late in the game. However, Atlanta found their composure thanks to Jordin Canada, who acted as the second half engine with 19 points and 11 assists, alongside Rhyne Howard’s contributing 21 points.
The closing minutes devolved into a tense sequence of turnovers and critical fouls that ultimately haunted New York. While Stewart remained perfect from the free throw line, she missed a potential game tying baseline jumper with less than ten seconds remaining. For Stewart, it marked a rare low point in her career as she experienced her first ever playoff sweep. On the opposite side of the court, coach Karl Smesko celebrates a massive turnaround for his franchise following a strategic midseason acquisition of Reese that has propelled them back onto the league’s biggest stage.
While there was plenty of celebration in the locker room, Angel Reese made it clear that victory tonight was just a stepping stone rather than a destination. Speaking after the game, she noted that while she is happy with their progress, she remains unsatisfied until they secure a trophy. The Dream now shift their focus to October 17 when they will tip off their quest for a championship against the Golden State Valkyries, who similarly advanced via a sweep of their own opponents.
