ATL Standard

The Atlanta Dream secured an 83-81 victory over the Seattle Storm, marking a strong start to the second half of their 2024 season. The win was largely driven by Rhyne Howard's standout performance, where she scored 30 points and contributed eight rebounds, two blocks, two steals, and two assists. This game marked her return after winning a Bronze medal with Team USA’s 3x3 women’s basketball team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“I always say shooters shoot,” Howard remarked postgame. “So, once I see one go in, then the next couple are going to be heat checks, so they continue to go in. My teammates continued to find me and give me open looks.”

The Dream improved their record to 8-17 overall and 4-8 at home.

“I thought, I told them inside, [we] were really proud of the effort today,” said head coach Tanisha Wright. “I thought today was a day that we grew up a little bit.”

Despite trailing by double digits entering the second half, Howard's 14-point contribution in the third quarter initiated a comeback for the Dream. The team went on a 15-6 run in the third quarter followed by a 21-9 run in the fourth quarter.

Allisha Gray and Jordin Canada played crucial roles in maintaining Atlanta's lead during the final moments of the game. Both players made key free throws with under 30 seconds left on the clock.

Canada scored all her ten points in the fourth quarter and led with eight assists for the game.

“She's somebody who has experience in this league, who's won championships in this league,” Wright said about Canada's influence on the team. “And so, to have somebody out there, just a floor general that can create and find the right people at the right time.”

In response to Seattle’s Jewell Lloyd tying the game with a long-range three-pointer with four seconds remaining, veteran Tina Charles secured victory for Atlanta. Following a timeout play designed for sideline out-of-bounds action, Canada passed to Charles who made a decisive jumper as time expired.

Atlanta will continue its five-game home stand against Connecticut Sun on Sunday, August 18 at 3:00 p.m. EST. The game will be broadcasted on Peachtree Sports Network and ESPN3.