Rhyne Howard, Angel Reese power Dream past Mystics in Game 1
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 27: Angel Reese #5 of the Atlanta Dream drives to the basket during the game against the Washington Mystics during Round One Game One of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs on September 27, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. (Ph
ATLANTA - Atlanta turned 22 Washington turnovers into 27 points to secure a 92-77 victory over the Mystics in Game 1 of their first-round series Sunday night.
Atlanta Dream hosts playoff game against Mystics
The Atlanta Dream defeated the New York Liberty on Wednesday to clinch the number four seed, lock in home-court advantage, and tie a franchise record with 30 regular season wins.
What we know:
Rhyne Howard poured in 26 points and recorded five steals to lead fourth-seeded Atlanta over the No. 5 seed Mystics.
Allisha Gray contributed 22 points, while Jordin Canada tallied 10 points and 11 assists for the Dream. Angel Reese provided 13 points and 12 rebounds in her career playoff debut.
Atlanta set a franchise playoff record by gathering 16 steals, coming within two of the WNBA mark.
Howard converted 10 of 10 free throws to complement her scoring night.
Sonia Citron paced Washington with 25 points, while Kiki Iriafen produced 15 points and 14 rebounds.
Shakira Austin added 12 points and 16 rebounds for the Mystics.
What we don't know:
Officials have not yet confirmed if Washington will adjust its starting lineup to limit turnovers ahead of Game 2.
It remains unknown how the Mystics plan to counter Atlanta's perimeter pressure after surrendering 27 points off giveaways.
What's next:
Game 2 of the first-round series takes place Wednesday in Washington.
The Mystics, making their first postseason appearance since capturing the 2019 WNBA title, must win to extend their season.
The Source: The Associated Press contributed to this report.