Atlanta Dream Shines in Competitive WNBA Season

NEW YORK (AP) — The 2025 WNBA season is well underway, and no team remains undefeated as every squad has suffered at least one defeat. The New York Liberty were the last team standing, but their nine-game win streak was snapped recently by the Indiana Fever.

In an impressive display, the Fever took down the Liberty 102–88. Indiana’s Caitlin Clark shined in her return from injury, scoring 32 points after missing five games due to a quad injury. This victory brought the Fever’s record to 5–5.

The Atlanta Dream also made headlines this week with noteworthy performances. Rhyne Howard made history by becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to reach 300 career three-pointers, accomplishing the feat in just 114 games. She set a franchise record with nine three-pointers and scored 36 points against the Chicago Sky. Allisha Gray joined her in the limelight, scoring a career-high 32 points in a win over the Washington Mystics.

Atlanta’s head coach Karl Smesko praised Gray’s exceptional talent, stating, “Every game she looks more and more comfortable.” With their 8–3 record, the Dream are establishing a strong identity, thanks to both veteran leadership and new acquisitions such as Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner.

The Dream are set to face the reigning champions, the Liberty, on Tuesday, a game that promises to be a highlight of the week. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s Lynx surged back after a setback against Seattle, beating the Sparks by 23 points, with Naphessa Collier scoring 32 points.

Seattle’s performance has been inconsistent as they continue to search for stability. The Mercury, despite injuries, are 8–4 and welcomed star guard Kahleah Copper back from knee surgery, adding depth to their lineup.

The expansion franchise, Golden State Valkyries, continues to surprise, currently riding a three-game win streak and showcasing a strong defensive effort.

A’ja Wilson of the Aces missed the last two games due to concussion protocol, adding pressure on the team as they work through mounting challenges. The Sparks, despite fluctuations in performance, are hopeful after Rickea Jackson recorded a career-high 30 points.

As teams grapple with injuries and competitive matchups, the WNBA is shaping into one of its most thrilling seasons yet. The league is not only thrilling on the court but also aims to reach communities more broadly through initiatives like painting the WNBA 3-point line in local parks.