The Minnesota Lynx defeated the Atlanta Dream 96-81 on May 27, 2026, at Target Center in Minneapolis, marking a strong comeback after an earlier loss to the same team this season.
Why it matters: This victory boosts the Lynx's record to 5-2 and evens the season series against the Dream at 1-1. The Lynx showcased their offensive prowess, shooting 60% from the field and recording a season-high 26 assists.
Courtney Williams led Minnesota with 25 points and seven assists, shooting 10-for-15 from the field.
Natasha Howard contributed significantly with 22 points and eight rebounds, underscoring the Lynx's strong inside presence.
All five Lynx starters scored in double digits, highlighting a balanced offensive attack.
Driving the news: The Lynx took control of the game in the third quarter, initiating a decisive 13-0 run that shifted momentum firmly in their favor.
After leading 44-40 early in the third, Minnesota outscored Atlanta 28-19 in the quarter.
Rookie Olivia Miles capped off the third with a three-point play, pushing the lead to 70-56 heading into the fourth.
Williams sealed the win with a wide-open 3-pointer with just over three minutes left, extending the lead to 88-75.
State of play: The Lynx set the tone early in the first quarter, scoring the first seven points of the game.
They established a 20-7 lead after a layup by Kayla McBride, who finished with 12 points.
Atlanta managed to trim the deficit in the second quarter, outscoring Minnesota 23-19.
Allisha Gray led the Dream with 21 points, shooting 7-for-11, and made five 3-pointers.
The big picture: This matchup was a rematch of the season opener where the Lynx lost by just one point, 91-90.
The Lynx's victory marks a turnaround after dropping their first game of the season against Atlanta.
With this win, both teams now have a record of 4-2 and 5-2 respectively, keeping them competitive in the WNBA standings.
Atlanta's loss was particularly disappointing as it represented their first road defeat of the season.
What they're saying: Players and coaches from both teams acknowledged the significance of the game.
"We knew we had to come out strong after our last game against them," Williams said after the match.
Dream coach Tanisha Wright emphasized the need for her players to learn from the defeat, stating, "We need to regroup and focus on our next games."
Howard noted, "This win feels great, especially after how close the last game was. We showed our resilience tonight."
By the numbers: The game featured several impressive individual performances and team statistics.
Minnesota shot 60% from the field, a remarkable efficiency that contributed to their scoring success.
The Lynx recorded 26 assists on 40 made field goals, demonstrating excellent ball movement.
Atlanta's Gray was a standout performer, averaging 21.8 points per game prior to this match.
What's next: Following this matchup, Atlanta will face the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday.
The Lynx will travel to Chicago for their next game, aiming to build on their recent success.
Both teams will look to solidify their playoff positions as the season progresses.
The upcoming games are seen as opportunities for each team to refine their strategies and improve their standings.