Allisha Gray’s Game-Winner Caps Dream’s Comeback Over Wings in Thriller
The Atlanta Dream extended their winning streak to four games with a dramatic 82-81 victory over the Dallas Wings on Thursday night at College Park Center. Allisha Gray delivered the decisive bucket, capping off an explosive evening and sealing a comeback from a 15-point deficit. The win improved Atlanta’s record to 17-10, solidifying their position as a contender in the WNBA standings.
Gray and Angel Reese spearheaded the Dream’s resurgence, combining for key plays that chipped away at Dallas’s lead. Reese’s relentless energy on the boards and Gray’s clutch scoring proved pivotal as Atlanta clawed back in the second half. The Wings, led by rookie Paige Bueckers, had controlled much of the game but faltered down the stretch. Bueckers, who exited the court after the narrow loss, showcased her playmaking ability alongside guard Berger and forward Okonkwo, who knocked down a crucial third-quarter three-pointer.
Dallas coach Jose Fernandez had emphasized that early-season losses to Atlanta were a thing of the past, but the Wings again fell short. The team continues to navigate the absence of star guard Arike Ogunbowale, who remains without a timetable for return due to knee tendonitis. Fernandez praised Okonkwo’s impact as a new addition, noting her floor-spacing ability has been critical for a Wings team often short on perimeter shooting. In just her fourth game, Okonkwo consistently forced Atlanta’s defense to respect her range, opening driving lanes for Bueckers and Berger.
The Dream’s resilience was on full display as they refused to fold despite the early deficit. Gray’s game-winner not only highlighted her individual brilliance but also underscored Atlanta’s growing chemistry under pressure. With the win, the Dream continue to build momentum, while the Wings are left to regroup as they await Ogunbowale’s return and seek consistency in a tightly contested season.