Atlanta Starters Shine in Dominant Victory
Introduction to the Match
The Atlanta Dream secured a convincing 86-49 win over the Chicago Sky, with their starters combining for an impressive 58 points.
CHICAGO (AP) — Brittney Griner scored 15 points, Brionna Jones and Allisha Gray each added 14 points, and the Atlanta Dream cruised past the Chicago Sky 86-49 on Wednesday.
Dominant Performance in the Third Quarter
Atlanta opened the third quarter on a 14-0 run and closed the frame with a 74-36 lead. The Dream made 13 field goals in the third — one more than the Sky had through three quarters.
Key Statistics and Milestones
The score was 62-26 before the Sky made their second field goal of the second half with 3:24 left in the third. The Dream led by as many as 43 in the fourth.
Impact of Missing Starters
Both teams were missing key starters. Chicago star Angel Reese missed her first game of the season with a leg injury and guard Ariel Atkins was out due to a calf injury. Dream forward Rhyne Howard will be out for the rest of July with a knee injury.
Notable Performances
Rookie Te-Hina Paopao finished with 13 points and Naz Hillmon scored 10 for Atlanta (13-9). Jordin Canada had eight assists.
Rebecca Allen had a team-high nine points and three 3-pointers — all in the third quarter — for Chicago (7-15). Kamilla Cardoso added eight points and 11 rebounds.
Closing Moments of the Game
Chicago avoided its lowest scoring game in franchise history when Moriah Jefferson made a jumper in the lane with 30.3 seconds left.
Conclusion
The Atlanta Dream’s victory over the Chicago Sky was a testament to their strength and depth, even with key players missing. The starters’ combined 58 points were a significant factor in their dominant win.
FAQs
Q: Who were the top scorers for the Atlanta Dream?
A: Brittney Griner scored 15 points, while Brionna Jones and Allisha Gray each added 14 points.
Q: What was the score at the end of the third quarter?
A: The Dream led 74-36 at the end of the third quarter.
Q: Which players were missing from the game due to injuries?
A: Chicago’s Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins, as well as Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard, were missing due to injuries.
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: The Atlanta Dream won 86-49 against the Chicago Sky.
