The Atlanta Dream secured an 85-83 victory over the New York Liberty, sweeping the WNBA semifinals and advancing to the Finals.
Atlanta Establishes Early Control Behind Reese and Howard
The Dream set the tone in the opening quarter, outscoring New York 25-18 and immediately putting pressure on the home team. Atlanta’s offense found its rhythm from the perimeter, while Angel Reese attacked aggressively and Rhyne Howard supplied important scoring support. The visitors maintained their advantage in the second quarter, adding 19 points while limiting the Liberty to 21. Atlanta entered halftime with a 44-39 lead, giving the team a five-point cushion heading into the second half. Reese was particularly influential early, providing the physical presence and offensive production Atlanta needed to withstand New York’s attempts to establish momentum. Howard also played a significant role, helping the Dream maintain their offensive balance. Although the Liberty remained within striking distance, Atlanta’s first-half execution created a foundation that would become crucial during the closing minutes.
Liberty Responds as Stewart and Jones Deliver Outstanding Performances
New York came out with renewed urgency after halftime, determined to keep its championship hopes alive. Stewart and Jones took responsibility offensively, attacking the basket and creating scoring opportunities against Atlanta’s defense. The Liberty erupted for 29 points in the third quarter, their strongest period of the game, while holding the Dream to 22. That seven-point advantage transformed the contest and allowed New York to enter the fourth quarter leading 68-66. Stewart finished with 26 points, four rebounds and six assists, demonstrating her ability to contribute as both a scorer and playmaker. Jones also recorded 26 points, complemented by a game-high 14 rebounds and three blocks. Her presence inside gave New York valuable second-chance opportunities and defensive resistance. Despite those individual achievements, the Liberty could not translate their third-quarter momentum into a decisive advantage during the final period.
Dream Regains Momentum in a Tense Fourth Quarter
Atlanta responded to the challenge with the discipline required in an elimination game. The Dream outscored New York 19-15 in the fourth quarter, tightening their defense and making the Liberty work for every possession. After allowing the home team to take control in the third, Atlanta reduced New York’s offensive efficiency and prevented Stewart and Jones from finding consistent opportunities late. Reese finished with 22 points and nine rebounds, leading Atlanta’s scoring effort and providing a powerful presence throughout the contest. Howard contributed 21 points, while Jordin Canada added 19 points and 11 assists, directing the offense and creating opportunities for her teammates. DeWanna Bonner also made an important contribution with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Atlanta’s balanced production was especially valuable because leading scorer Allisha Gray missed the game with a left-hand injury. Rather than allowing her absence to derail their plans, the Dream received meaningful contributions from several players and maintained their composure under pressure.
Final Possessions Seal Atlanta’s Historic Achievement
The closing moments captured the intensity of the series. New York remained within reach of forcing another game, but the Liberty could not find the decisive basket they needed. With Atlanta protecting a narrow lead, Stewart missed a contested layup with approximately nine seconds remaining. Bonner then converted two free throws with 6.2 seconds left, extending the Dream’s advantage and placing the outcome firmly within reach. New York’s final efforts were not enough to reverse the result, and Atlanta celebrated an 85-83 victory that completed the sweep. Sabrina Ionescu finished with 12 points for the Liberty, shooting four of 12 from the field, while Leonie Fiebich contributed eight points. The supporting production was insufficient to match Atlanta’s leading scorers in the decisive moments. The Dream’s ability to execute under pressure ultimately separated the teams in a contest decided by just two points.
Atlanta Advances While New York Faces an Offseason of Reflection
The victory sends Atlanta to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2013 and gives the franchise an opportunity to pursue its first championship. The Dream previously reached the Finals in 2010, 2011 and 2013, finishing as runners-up on each occasion. Their 2026 postseason run has now positioned them four wins away from a title, with the Finals scheduled to begin October 17 against either the Las Vegas Aces or the Golden State Valkyries. For New York, the elimination is a painful conclusion after the franchise captured its first WNBA championship in 2024. Stewart and Jones delivered outstanding individual performances in Game 3, but Atlanta’s depth, defensive response and late-game execution proved decisive across the series. The Liberty must now evaluate their season and determine how to return to championship contention. Meanwhile, the Dream can celebrate a statement victory that confirms their place among the league’s strongest teams and brings them one step closer to the ultimate prize.
Atlanta’s thrilling victory over New York not only secured a place in the WNBA Finals but also demonstrated the team’s resilience and strategic execution. As they prepare for the championship series, the Dream will look to build on their postseason success and aim for their first-ever title. The Liberty, meanwhile, will reflect on a season that ended sooner than hoped, with plans to regroup and return stronger next year.
