Photo via Yahoo Sports

Dream give Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard a moment to celebrate before playoff win

Prior to their opening postseason fixture against the Washington Mystics, head coach Karl Smesko interrupted practice to honor Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard. Reese learned she had captured the Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year accolade, while both athletes were acknowledged for making the All-WNBA Second Team.

Following the brief ceremony, Atlanta overcame a sluggish start to secure a 92-77 triumph and take a one-to-zero series advantage.

Howard powered the offensive output with a game-high twenty-six points, aided by Allisha Gray contributing twenty-two points and DeWanna Bonner adding thirteen off the bench. Reese recorded thirteen points alongside twelve rebounds during her initial playoff appearance despite converting just four of fifteen field goal attempts.

The two sides are scheduled to meet again on Wednesday in Washington as the Mystics attempt to stave off elimination.

Up nextWNBA· 11h ago

“Big Surprise”: Caitlin Clark’s Biographer Reveals Thoughts Around Concerning Playoff Reality Surrounding Angel Reese, Atlanta Dream