In a high-energy WNBA battle packed with emotion and intensity, the Atlanta Dream outclassed the Phoenix Mercury with a solid 90–79 triumph at the Footprint Center. While Allisha Gray delivered a scoring masterclass, all eyes were also on Brittney Griner, who returned to her former home court for the first time since switching teams – and didn’t disappoint.
Allisha Gray Shines Bright for Atlanta
Allisha Gray lit up the scoreboard with 28 points on a sharp 10-of-16 shooting display, reaffirming her role as the driving force behind Atlanta’s offense. Her fearless drives, smooth pull-ups, and sharp shooting kept Atlanta ahead throughout the contest. Supported by Jordin Canada’s 14 points and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough’s 11, the Dream never let go of the reins once they grabbed the lead in the second quarter.
Gray’s Impact:
“She plays with grit and grace – a complete guard who can carry the team when it matters most,” said head coach Tanisha Wright post-game.
Griner Returns to Phoenix: Tears and Tough Buckets
The night was emotional for Brittney Griner, who stepped onto the Phoenix court wearing an Atlanta jersey for the first time. The Mercury paid tribute with an emotional video that brought fans to their feet and tears to some eyes — but once the game tipped off, Griner shifted into full focus, ready to compete.
She posted 17 points and 8 rebounds, muscling through her former teammates and showing flashes of her prime form. It was a bittersweet moment – a homecoming wrapped in intensity and closure.
“Phoenix gave me memories for life,” Griner said post-game. “But I’m focused on building something special in Atlanta now.”
Mercury’s Cold Night
Phoenix struggled all night with poor shooting, finishing at 29.7% from the field and just 3-of-15 from beyond the arc. Despite flashes of brilliance from Sami Whitcomb and Diana Taurasi, the Mercury couldn’t find offensive rhythm.
Their free-throw shooting (28-of-31) kept them in contention, but they lacked the offensive firepower needed to match Atlanta’s fast-paced game.
Game Turning Point
Late in the fourth quarter, with Phoenix closing the gap to single digits, Griner came up big – not with a block or a dunk, but a clutch turnaround jumper that deflated Phoenix’s momentum. That moment served as both the emotional peak and the game’s pivotal turning point, shifting momentum firmly in Atlanta’s favor.
Key Game Stats:
| Player | Team | Points | FG% | Rebounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allisha Gray | Dream | 28 | 62% | 3 |
| Brittney Griner | Dream | 17 | 53% | 8 |
| Jordin Canada | Dream | 14 | 50% | 5 |
| Diana Taurasi | Mercury | 12 | 38% | 4 |
What’s Next?
The Dream now leads the regular season series 1–0. With two games remaining between these teams (August 1 and August 10), fans can expect more fireworks — especially as both squads jockey for playoff positioning.
Atlanta Dream record: 14–10 (3rd in East)
Phoenix Mercury record: 15-8 (2nd in West)
This win boosts Atlanta’s momentum as they make a late push for playoff seeding, while Phoenix will look to regroup quickly and fix their shooting woes.
SportSnip Analysis
This wasn’t just another regular season game – it was a tale of closure, leadership, and statement-making. Allisha Gray showcased her status as one of the WNBA’s premier scorers, while Griner’s homecoming highlighted her poise, resilience, and emotional maturity.
If Atlanta can keep this rhythm, they’re a dangerous team heading into August. As for Phoenix, they need to rediscover their shooting form before this cold streak becomes a serious concern.
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