The Atlanta Dream dismantle the Washington Mystics 94-89 in what feels like a playoff atmosphere. Only this is a home game, and a team still searching for an identity and answers for early season struggles.
“Good win, [but] like I told them it means nothing until we start showing some consistency.”
Tanisha Wright, Head Coach, Atlanta Dream
While head coach Tanisha Wright wants to see more from her team, tonight’s game is a good start. The Dream controlled the tempo from the beginning. Rhyne Howard is making her presence known this season, starting with an 11-point first quarter. Nia Coffey and Allisha Gray are following her lead, bringing intensity and great energy that transfers to the rest of the team. By the end of the first quarter, the Dream lead by eight points, something they couldn’t do facing the Mystics earlier this week.
As the second quarter unfolds, the production from the team is a sight to behold. Nia Coffey, Asia Durr, Naz Hillmon, and Gray are all contributors, adding a barrage of points that keeps the Mystics reeling. However, the veteran team quickly adjusts to the Dream’s advances and puts together tough shots to lead the game at halftime, 48-47.
Like last Friday’s game against the Liberty, veteran Guard Danielle Robinson comes off the bench with nearly palpable electricity, injecting more energy into the game. It’s all hands on deck as the Dream continue righting the wrongs of past games. The crowd loudly screams “defense,” practically willing the team to play better, harder, and with intentional focus. The quarter ends with the Dream leading 67-61, holding the Mystics to 13 points and 46% shooting.
The fourth quarter belongs to the Dream, starting with an accumulation of critical points from Asia Durr, creating opportunities for the offense to be aggressive and to attack. Allisha Gray is also critical to the team, withstanding a late push from the Mystics. Gray’s 13 points and incredible defensive hustle lift the Dream to a massive win.
The Dream snap a three-game losing streak and a two-game stream of giving up over 100 points defensively. They look to continue their winning ways as the Los Angeles Sparks (7-9) come to Gateway Arena on Sunday.
Hall About Sports 