Howard and Gray Lead Atlanta Dream to Comeback Win Over Seattle Storm

Dean Rutz / The Seattle Times

On Friday night in Seattle, the Atlanta Dream completed a thrilling comeback victory over the Seattle Storm, rallying from a 17-point deficit to win 94-87. Rhyne Howard scored a season-high 33 points, while Allisha Gray added a career-best 28 to lift the Dream to their fourth consecutive win. Seattle dominated early, building a 17-point lead in the third quarter. However, the Dream (5-2) responded with a strong push, scoring 14 of the next 20 points. A key 11-0 run, capped by a Gray three-pointer, trimmed the deficit to just two points with under three minutes left in the third quarter. Gray then gave Atlanta its first lead since the opening moments of the game with free throws, followed by another clutch three-pointer early in the fourth. Howard and Gray, who had a combined seven points at halftime, exploded for 40 points in the second half. Their offensive surge was supported by Brionna Jones, who added 15 points, and Naz Hillmon, who contributed 11 points and six rebounds—five of them on the offensive end.

Seattle (3-3) was led by veteran guard Skylar Diggins-Smith with 20 points. Nneka Ogwumike scored 16, and both Gabby Williams and Erica Wheeler added 14 apiece. Despite their strong start, the Storm were outscored 60-42 in the second half. Atlanta shot an impressive 55% from the field during that span and took advantage of their trips to the free-throw line, making 8 of 11 in the final quarter, compared to Seattle's perfect but limited 4-of-4 effort.

Atlanta's defense also stepped up late, forcing critical misses and sealing the game with Howard's final six points in the closing minutes.

With the win, the Dream continue their road trip and are set to face the Connecticut Sun next Friday. Seattle will remain at home for their next contest against the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces on Sunday.