Dream Fall to Lynx 96–81 Despite Strong Nights from Gray and Hillmon

The Atlanta Dream fought to stay within striking distance throughout the night, but the Minnesota Lynx pulled away late for a 96–81 win Tuesday night.

Atlanta showed flashes offensively, particularly in the second and fourth quarters, but Minnesota’s balance and shot making proved too much to overcome as the Dream fell to 4–2 on the season.

The Lynx came out aggressive early, building a nine point lead after the opening quarter behind strong offensive execution and tempo. Atlanta answered in the second quarter with one of its best stretches of the night, outscoring Minnesota 23–19 to cut into the deficit heading into halftime.

Even after Minnesota created separation again in the third, the Dream continued to battle. Atlanta scored 25 points in the fourth quarter and had moments where it looked ready to make another push, but the Lynx consistently answered every run.

Allisha Gray once again led the way offensively for Atlanta, finishing with 21 points in her fourth 20 plus point performance of the season. Gray continued to provide steady scoring while attacking downhill and creating offense throughout the game.

Naz Hillmon delivered arguably her strongest performance of the 2026 season, finishing with 15 points and eight rebounds while falling just short of a double double. Hillmon’s activity around the basket and energy on both ends gave Atlanta an important spark.

Rhyne Howard added 10 points while also reaching another career milestone. After recording her second assist of the night, Howard surpassed 500 career assists. Angel Reese contributed 10 points, eight rebounds, and five assists in another active all around performance, while Jordin Canada added nine points and five assists running the offense.

Atlanta’s starting lineup of Jordin Canada, Gray, Howard, Hillmon, and Angel Reese entered the night with a 4–1 record together this season before suffering its first loss as a unit.

Minnesota was led by Courtney Williams with 25 points, while Olivia Miles controlled the pace offensively with eight assists. Howard added eight rebounds for the Lynx as Minnesota improved its all-time series advantage over Atlanta to 32–15 overall.

One of the bright spots for Atlanta came from Sika Koné, who made her presence felt in the first half with an inside finish and her first three pointer of the 2026 season.

The Dream will now look to regroup as they continue navigating a tough early season stretch.

The Dream will look to bounce back Friday night when they take on the 5–3 Portland Fire on May 29 at 10 p.m. EDT.