Angel Reese Returns With Double-Double as Dream Hold Off Sparks for 101-92 Victory
Angel Reese made an immediate impact in her return from injury, recording a double-double to lead the Atlanta Dream to a 101-92 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Monday night at Gateway Center Arena.
After missing Atlanta's previous game with an ankle injury, Reese finished with 23 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Dream improve to 14-10 while snapping back into the win column with their second victory in three games.
Reese Delivers in the Closing Minutes
Reese's biggest contributions came late in the fourth quarter after Los Angeles erased most of Atlanta's lead.
With the game tied in the final minutes, she knocked down a corner three-pointer—only her third made three-pointer of the season—before adding two free throws to help the Dream regain control.
The performance marked Reese's 16th double-double of the season and the 65th of her WNBA career, further strengthening her case as one of the league's most productive frontcourt players.
Balanced Scoring Powers Atlanta
Atlanta received contributions throughout its lineup, with all five starters scoring in double figures.
- Angel Reese: 23 points, 13 rebounds
- Allisha Gray: 20 points
- Jordan Canada: 16 points, 9 assists
- Rhyne Howard: 11 points
- Naz Hillmon: 10 points
The Dream's bench also played an important role, combining for 21 points, including 11 from Isobel Borlase.
Dream Build Early Lead Before Sparks Rally
Atlanta controlled much of the first half, taking a 59-48 lead into the break behind efficient offense and strong production in the paint.
The Dream extended their advantage to 79-67 late in the third quarter before Los Angeles mounted a comeback, eventually tying the game at 83-83 midway through the fourth.
Atlanta responded with timely defensive plays and clutch scoring, outscoring the Sparks over the final minutes to pull away for the nine-point win.
Reese Sparks Late Momentum
Following the Sparks' rally, Reese ignited Atlanta's finishing run.
She ended the Dream's scoring drought with a pair of free throws before hitting the momentum-shifting three-pointer that energized both her teammates and the home crowd. A steal and transition layup by Jordan Canada, followed by a late three from Rhyne Howard, sealed the victory.
Atlanta Looks to Build Momentum
The Dream have emphasized finding consistency after an uneven stretch of games, and Monday's performance provided another encouraging sign with Reese back in the lineup.
While Atlanta's defense allowed the Sparks to shoot better than 52% from the field, the Dream made the key plays when it mattered most, closing the game with poise to secure a 101-92 win and continue their push in the WNBA standings.
