In a dramatic overtime showdown on Wednesday night, the Atlanta Dream secured a 101-98 win over the New York Liberty, taking a 2-0 lead in the WNBA semifinals. Angel Reese led the Dream with 23 points, while Naz Hillmon delivered the go‑ahead layup with 20.8 seconds left in overtime.
Key moments
Reese was instrumental in the extra period, scoring six of Atlanta’s 13 overtime points. She sank two free throws with 4.3 seconds remaining after Sabrina Ionescu overthrew a pass, giving the Dream an 88-85 advantage.
New York fought back, with Marine Fauthoux hitting a game‑tying three‑pointer with 10.3 seconds left, sending the contest to overtime. Rhyne Howard’s mid‑range floater missed the final buzzer, and the teams entered the extra period tied.
Dream’s execution
Dream coach Karl Smesko praised his squad’s focus, saying, “We had a message that we could be the best team over the last five minutes and executed the first couple plays.” The Dream opened overtime with a five‑point burst before the Liberty responded with eight straight points, taking a 96-93 lead.
Reese and Jordin Canada each added a basket to flip the lead back to Atlanta, but Liberty star Breanna Stewart answered with a quick layup, keeping the contest tight.
Hillmon’s decisive play
With the game hanging in the balance, Hillmon drove to the basket and scored the layup that gave Atlanta a permanent lead, sealing the win.
After the game, Stewart emphasized the team’s mindset: “We’re not focused on winning three games straight right now. We’re focused on winning one game, and that’s Friday, and then we go from there. This group has experience and confidence.”
Missing players and future outlook
The Dream played without leading scorer Allisha Gray, who missed the game due to a left‑hand injury. Rookie Izzy Borlase stepped in, contributing 11 points off the bench.
New York will host Game 3 on Friday, looking to stay alive in the series.
Statistical highlights
- Angel Reese – 23 points (6 in OT)
- Naz Hillmon – go‑ahead layup in OT
- Jordin Canada – 23 points, 8 assists
- Breanna Stewart – 35 points (25 in first half)
- Marine Fauthoux – game‑tying three‑pointer
The Dream’s victory brings them within one win of their first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013, underscoring a strong postseason push.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
