Dream Fall Short In Thriller Against Aces, 85-84

The Atlanta Dream fought until the final buzzer but came up just short in an 85-84 loss to the Las Vegas Aces Sunday afternoon at State Farm Arena. Despite multiple late pushes from Atlanta, the defending champions made enough plays down the stretch to escape with the one-point victory.

The Dream trailed 51-44 at halftime after Las Vegas controlled the tempo for much of the opening half. Atlanta struggled at times slowing down A’ja Wilson and the Aces’ transition offense, but the home crowd stayed engaged throughout the afternoon, including a lively halftime performance from Bow Wow and Franchise Boys.

Atlanta continued to battle in the third quarter behind the energy of Allisha Gray, Angel Reese and Naz Hillmon. Rookie Indya Nivar provided a spark defensively with steals and a block while Madina Okot added valuable minutes inside during key stretches of the second half. The Dream showed resilience again after cutting into the deficit multiple times late in the game.

Gray helped keep Atlanta within striking distance offensively while Reese continued impacting the game on the glass and defensively. Jordin Canada also contributed key steals and assists as the Dream attempted to rally in the fourth quarter.

Las Vegas ultimately answered Atlanta’s runs with timely baskets and free throws in the closing minutes to hold on for the win. The loss marked Atlanta’s first defeat of the young season after opening the year with back-to-back comeback victories.

The Dream will take on the Wings at home Fri, May 22. Tipoff is at 7:30 PM.