No. 4 Atlanta has settled the Dream vs Mystics score, closing out a first-round WNBA playoffs sweep of No. 6 Washington on Wednesday to book its first semifinal berth since 2018.
All five Dream starters reached double-figure scoring in the 93-75 victory. Allisha Gray led with 22 points, followed by Jordin Canada’s 19-point, 11-assist double-double, and 15 apiece from Rhyne Howard and Angel Reese.
Atlanta pulled away late with a 13-0 fourth-quarter run, outscoring the Mystics 28-17 in the final frame to ice a game that featured 53 fouls — just shy of the postseason-record 57.
Washington out-rebounded the Dream 42-27 and hit 24 of 28 free throws, but 38% shooting and 19 turnovers kept the young Mystics from extending their breakthrough season.
Forward Kiki Iriafen rose above, claiming 16 rebounds to become the 10th player to register at least 14 boards in back-to-back playoff games — and the first to grab 14+ rebounds in her first two postseason appearances.
“This is going to sting,” coach Sidney Johnson said. “But I also think what this group has accomplished and how the DC community has rallied around this group — they’ve written history.”
Atlanta tips off the best-of-five semis against No. 8 New York on Sunday.
