The Atlanta Dream lost a tough second match in the first round of the WNBA Playoffs falling 82-91 against the New York Liberty in front of a sellout crowd. The loss brings an end to their 2024 season. After the match, various members of the team commented about the season and the difficulties that came with it.
“I’m extremely proud of this team—the way they first came out tonight, and throughout the year—their character really came out. Despite the injuries, they kept fighting, kept plugging” – Head Coach Tanisha Wright.
“Post-Olympic break was the most fun that we had, and you could clearly see that we enjoyed being together, we enjoyed coming out and fighting with each other every game. We obviously wish it would’ve happened sooner.” – Rhyne Howard
“I would say (the season) was challenging because like I said, we had to overcome a lot. But it’s just the fact that we’re able to put our heads down and overcome the challenges. But it wasn’t easy, it was definitely a challenge.”
The Dream came out the blocks early in the game, winning over the first quarter 28-19. They started on an 11-3 run with Allisha Gray and Naz Hillmon combining for nine points. After their dominant display in the first, the Dream wouldn’t win another quarter the rest of the night.
Allisha Gray led the Dream with 26 points, Naz Hillmon led in rebounds with 10, and Jordin Canada had 11 assists with eight points.
Credit to the Liberty who were short on depth but loaded in their starting five. Jonquel Jones went on a tear with 20 points and 13 rebounds, earning a double-double on the night. Breanna Stewart finished with 13 points and three assists. Sabrina Ionescu stole the show, earning a massive 36 points while making nine assists. She led the match in three-pointers taken with 11.
The Dream will have a chance to regroup and set up for next season, knowing they have a strong, youthful reinforcement arriving from Australia and a crop of injured players—Laeticia Amihere, Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, Aerial Powers—will be available.
Be sure to follow the Dream on their website and social media for updates.
-Jon Jones
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