Atlanta Dream Advances to WNBA Semifinals After Defeating Washington Mystics

The Atlanta Dream secured a spot in the WNBA semifinals, marking an impressive end to their first-round playoff series against the Washington Mystics. This marks the first time in four years that Atlanta progresses beyond the opening round.

With the best regular-season record in the Eastern Conference, the Dream showcased dominance at the court, overcoming the Mystics in Game 2 with a score of 83-75. Allisha Gray, Atlanta’s star guard, led the team with 22 points, sealing their place in the semifinals for the first time since 2018.

This victory sets up Atlanta against New York Liberty on Sunday for Game 1 of the semifinals. The Liberty made WNBA history by sweeping Minnesota, becoming the first No. 8 seed to eliminate a No. 1 seed in the league’s 30-year history.

Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream forward, celebrated with her teammates after being fouled in the first half during the playoff match against Washington Mystics, held at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C., on September 30, 2026. Reese contributed solid performance with 15 points and seven rebounds.

Key plays included Jordin Canada’s back-to-back 3-pointers and a subsequent jumper, widening the lead to 89-70 late in the fourth quarter. Rhyne Howard, noted first pick of the 2022 WNBA Draft, nailed 15 points before fouling out.

Despite Washington Mystics’ strong third-quarter rally of a 14-2 run, they faltered due to 11 first-half turnovers. Atlanta swiftly countered with a decisive 13-point streak, leading 78-62 late in the contest.

The Mystics were making a return to the playoffs after winning their last championship in 2019, while Atlanta has reached conference title status three times but seeks their first league championship win.