The Atlanta Dream are officially one of the most dangerous teams in the WNBA and Sunday night, they made that loud and clear.
With a commanding 93–80 win over the Chicago Sky, Atlanta improved to 10–4, powered by a dynamic and balanced performance that saw four players score in double figures. At the heart of it all was Rhyne Howard, who delivered yet another reminder that she’s one of the league’s rising superstars.
Howard’s All-Around Brilliance
Rhyne Howard didn’t just score she commanded. With 22 points, 7 rebounds, and a whopping 17 assists, she controlled the tempo from start to finish. Her playmaking set the tone, and her confidence radiated on every possession. Paired with sharpshooting and smart defensive reads, Howard’s performance was a blueprint in two-way dominance.
She continues to build on an already impressive resume, validating why Atlanta made her the No. 1 pick in 2022—and why the Dream have quickly become playoff contenders.
Dream Depth on Full Display
It wasn’t just Howard. Allisha Gray poured in 19 points. Brionna Jones notched a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds. But the breakout surprise came from rookie Te-Hina Paopao, who knocked down five three-pointers en route to a season-best 16 points off the bench.
The Dream shot nearly 50% from beyond the arc, stretching the floor and punishing the Sky’s defense with every rotation.
Angel Reese: A Rebounding Machine
Chicago may have taken the L, but Angel Reese’s motor didn’t quit. The rookie forward finished with 10 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, plus 4 assists and 3 steals. It was her seventh double-double of the season, and another sign that she’s establishing herself as one of the most physical forces in the paint.
Her presence kept the Sky competitive on the boards, even as Atlanta’s offense surged.
Ariel Atkins Breaks Out
Another bright spot for Chicago: Ariel Atkins exploded for a season-high 29 points. She kept the Sky in striking distance, especially during a third-quarter push that briefly cut the lead to single digits. Her shot creation and perimeter aggression provided a much-needed lift, though it wasn’t enough to match Atlanta’s offensive onslaught.
What It Means
- For Atlanta: They’re deep, disciplined, and playing with purpose. With Howard steering the ship and young players stepping up, the Dream are now a team no one wants to face.
- For Chicago: The talent is undeniable—Reese and Atkins continue to shine but with Courtney Williams still out, and inconsistency on both ends of the court, the team is searching for stability.
