Atlanta Dream Dominate Connecticut Sun 79-55 for Largest Win of the Season

The Atlanta Dream delivered a statement win on their home court, overpowering the Connecticut Sun 79-55 for their most decisive victory of the 2025 season. With a dominant performance on both ends of the floor, the Dream improved to a winning record for the first time this year and now sit at 34-30 all-time against the Sun — including an impressive 20-2 mark when playing in Atlanta.

New Starting Lineup Sparks Energy

Head coach Karl Smesko starting lineup featured Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, Maya Caldwell, Nia Coffey, and Brionna Jones. The lineup clicked instantly, helping Atlanta jump out early and maintain momentum throughout the contest. The Dream are now 1-0 with this starting five.

Rebounding and Efficiency Fuel Victory

Atlanta shot over 40% from the field and controlled the glass with a season-high 52 rebounds. The rebounding edge and consistent offensive output propelled them past the Sun, who struggled to keep pace with Atlanta’s depth and hustle.

Standout Performances

The trio of Maya Caldwell, Nia Coffey, and Naz Hillmon were instrumental in the Dream’s 24-point victory, combining for 37 points and 24 rebounds. Hillmon led all players in plus-minus with a +27, making her impact felt on both ends.

Allisha Gray and Coffey each contributed 18 points, with Gray adding seven boards and several momentum-shifting plays throughout the game.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

First Quarter

Nia Coffey wasted no time, opening the game with a smooth pull-up jumper. Brionna Jones followed with a contested layup assisted by Hillmon. Gray exploded for six points in under 30 seconds, igniting the home crowd. Hillmon scored seven straight to close the quarter as the Dream went on a 17-7 run, finishing the first period ahead by five.

Second Quarter

Caldwell and Gray continued to pace the offense, with Gray scoring seven consecutive points to extend Atlanta’s lead. Coffey drained a three-pointer, and the Dream held off the Sun’s late-quarter push to take a 37-33 lead into halftime.

Third Quarter

Jones knocked down a pair of free throws to open the second half, and Coffey quickly followed with back-to-back baskets. Caldwell’s three-pointer and Gray’s offensive surge — capped by a made-and-one — lifted the Dream to a 68-48 lead. The team closed the quarter on a dominant 19-7 run.

Fourth Quarter

Caldwell set the tone with a highlight block on J. Sheldon, then assisted Howard on a transition three. Caldwell added a field goal of her own shortly after as the Dream went on a 22-9 run. Coffey capped off the blowout with a layup in the final seconds, securing the 24-point win.

Up Next: Road Test Against the Sparks

The Dream now look to build on their momentum as they head west to face the Los Angeles Sparks on Monday, May 27. It will be Atlanta’s first road game since shaking up the starting lineup — and a key opportunity to prove they can carry this energy outside of Gateway Center Arena.