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Dream vs Liberty delivered a decisive playoff statement Monday night, with the Atlanta Dream defeating the New York Liberty 95-84 in New York. Jordin Canada scored 19 points, while Angel Reese produced 18 points and 10 rebounds as Atlanta moved closer to securing a top-four seed in the WNBA playoffs.
The victory improved the Dream to 29-14 and ended New York’s three-game winning streak. The Liberty fell to 26-17 and, according to the Associated Press report, will open the postseason on the road. Atlanta now has a valuable opportunity to claim home-court advantage in the opening round.
Dream vs Liberty: Atlanta Seizes Control
Atlanta led by three points at halftime before breaking the game open in the third quarter. The Dream carried a 73-62 advantage into the final period after a powerful stretch from Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard.
Gray, who was held scoreless during the first half, erupted for 12 points in the third quarter. She scored seven during a critical 9-2 run that gave Atlanta momentum and forced New York to chase the game. Howard then added 10 points in the period, helping the Dream build a lead the Liberty could not erase.
New York made several attempts to cut the deficit, getting within eight points on multiple occasions. However, Atlanta responded each time with timely baskets and disciplined defense. The Dream’s balanced attack and strong third-quarter execution ultimately proved too much for the Liberty.
Canada, Reese and Bonner Lead Atlanta’s Attack
Canada set the tone for Atlanta with her 19-point performance, consistently attacking the Liberty defense and creating scoring opportunities. Reese added an influential double-double, combining interior scoring with strong rebounding against New York’s experienced frontcourt.
DeWanna Bonner contributed 17 points, while Howard finished with 16. Bonner also delivered one of the game’s most important plays late in the second quarter. She grabbed an offensive rebound with 3.1 seconds remaining, converted the basket and completed a three-point play to give Atlanta a 41-38 halftime lead.
The Dream’s production was especially impressive considering Gray and Howard combined to miss all five of their shots in the opening quarter. Atlanta adjusted effectively after the slow start and turned the game into a statement win.
Breanna Stewart Keeps New York Competitive
Breanna Stewart led the Liberty with 27 points and 14 rebounds, producing another standout performance despite the defeat. Jonquel Jones added 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Pauline Astier scored 10 points in the first quarter as New York briefly held the upper hand.
The Liberty led by one after the opening period, but their shooting struggles became increasingly costly. New York made just one of 13 three-point attempts in the first half, limiting its ability to stretch Atlanta’s defense and maintain control.
The loss was also difficult because New York had played in Toronto on Sunday. The demanding schedule appeared to affect the Liberty’s energy, particularly after Atlanta created separation in the third quarter.
What the Win Means for the WNBA Playoff Race
The Dream are now within reach of a top-four finish. Atlanta can clinch home court in the opening round with a win against New York on Wednesday or if Indiana loses one of its final two games.
- Atlanta improved to 29-14 after the 95-84 victory.
- Jordin Canada led all Dream scorers with 19 points.
- Angel Reese recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds.
- New York’s three-game winning streak came to an end.
- The Liberty are set to begin the playoffs on the road.
The result gives Atlanta valuable momentum entering the final stretch of the regular season. Home-court advantage could be crucial in a tightly contested Eastern Conference, where small margins may decide the opening playoff round.
Liberty Honor World Cup Participants
Before tipoff, New York honored all seven of its players who participated in the women’s FIBA World Cup. The Liberty had at least one representative on each of the four semifinal teams.
Stewart led the United States to the gold medal and was named tournament MVP. Marine Johannes and Astier represented France, which earned silver, while Raquel Carrera played for Spain, the bronze medalist.
Despite the disappointing result, the pregame recognition highlighted the Liberty’s international depth and the major contributions their players made on the global stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Dream vs Liberty game?
The Atlanta Dream defeated the New York Liberty 95-84 on Monday night.
Who led Atlanta in scoring?
Jordin Canada led the Dream with 19 points. Angel Reese scored 18 points and added 10 rebounds.
How did Breanna Stewart perform?
Breanna Stewart led New York with 27 points and 14 rebounds in the loss.
What does the result mean for Atlanta?
The win moved Atlanta closer to securing a top-four WNBA playoff seed and home-court advantage in the opening round.
