Dream Flip the Switch, Stun Mercury Late

The Atlanta Dream looked out of sync for much of Sunday afternoon at Gateway Center Arena. Shots were not falling, the offense struggled to settle in, and the Phoenix Mercury appeared in control for most of the game.

But when the fourth quarter arrived, so did the Dream.

Atlanta used a dominant late-game push fueled by defense, clutch shot-making, and key performances from several players to rally for an 82-78 comeback victory over Phoenix, improving to 3-1 on the season. (wnba.com)

The afternoon did not begin in Atlanta’s favor.

Phoenix jumped out early and controlled the opening quarter while the Dream struggled to establish any offensive rhythm. Atlanta managed just 13 points in the first quarter as the Mercury capitalized on transition opportunities and perimeter shooting to build a 25-13 lead after one.

The Dream looked rushed offensively during the opening frame, but Jordin Canada’s defensive energy helped keep the game from completely slipping away early. Canada consistently pressured the ball and created activity defensively even while Atlanta struggled to score.

The second quarter brought more life from the Dream offense.

Allisha Gray began finding her spots offensively and helped Atlanta slowly chip away at the deficit with aggressive drives and mid-range scoring opportunities. Gray’s ability to attack downhill helped stabilize the offense during stretches when the Dream needed baskets.

Angel Reese also made her presence felt on the glass throughout the half, creating second-chance opportunities and battling inside against Phoenix’s frontcourt. Her physicality helped Atlanta stay competitive despite the slow start offensively.

Meanwhile, Te-Hina Paopao provided an important spark from the perimeter. The rookie guard knocked down timely shots that helped the Dream remain within striking distance entering halftime.

Even with Atlanta showing improvement in the second quarter, Phoenix still carried a 44-37 lead into the break.

The third quarter turned into a defensive battle.

Both teams struggled offensively as physicality increased and possessions became more difficult to convert. Naz Hillmon delivered key defensive minutes for Atlanta during that stretch, helping disrupt Phoenix offensively while also battling on the boards.

Still, every time Atlanta appeared ready to make a major run, the Mercury answered.

Phoenix maintained its lead throughout most of the third quarter and entered the final period ahead 57-49, leaving the Dream searching for one final push.

That push finally came in the fourth.

Atlanta’s defense completely changed the momentum of the game.

Canada once again became a major factor defensively, applying pressure at the point of attack and helping ignite transition opportunities for the Dream. Atlanta began forcing difficult shots and turning stops into points as the crowd inside Gateway Center Arena came alive.

Then came the pivotal moments offensively.

Gray continued delivering in clutch situations, knocking down key baskets and helping Atlanta steadily erase the deficit. Her leadership and poise offensively gave the Dream confidence late in the game.

Paopao also came through with critical perimeter shooting during the comeback effort. The rookie showed no fear in the moment and helped space the floor when Atlanta needed timely offense.

Inside, Reese and Hillmon continued doing the dirty work defensively and on the glass. Their effort helped Atlanta limit second-chance opportunities while creating extra possessions late in the game.

The Dream eventually took control during the final minutes behind a decisive run that completely flipped the momentum.

After trailing for most of the afternoon, Atlanta suddenly found itself closing out one of the most impressive comeback victories of the young season.

The 82-78 victory showcased exactly what has made this Dream team dangerous early this season — resilience, defensive intensity, and balanced contributions throughout the roster.

Even when the offense struggled early, Atlanta never stopped competing.

And when winning time arrived, multiple players stepped up with pivotal moments that helped complete the comeback.

The victory improves Atlanta to 3-1 on the season and gives the Dream another confidence-building win as chemistry continues developing within the roster.

For three quarters, Phoenix appeared in control.

But in the fourth quarter, the Dream finally looked like themselves again — aggressive defensively, composed offensively, and confident under pressure.

By the final buzzer, Gateway Center Arena was on its feet celebrating another dramatic Atlanta comeback.