What's Happening?
Atlanta Dream guard Rhyne Howard tied the WNBA single-game record by making nine 3-pointers in a game against the Los Angeles Sparks. This achievement marks Howard as the first player in league history to accomplish this feat more than once. Howard scored a total of 37 points, leading her team to a 104-85 victory, which secured home-court advantage for Atlanta in the first round of the playoffs. Howard's performance was supported by the offensive system of first-year Dream coach Karl Smesko, known for his success at Florida Gulf Coast. Despite missing 11 games due to a knee injury, Howard has made 97 3-pointers this season. The Dream are competing for the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, with their first postseason home game since 2018.
Why It's Important?
Rhyne Howard's record-setting performance highlights her as one of the top shooters in the WNBA, potentially influencing her standing among elite players. Her success under coach Karl Smesko's system demonstrates the impact of strategic coaching on player performance. The Dream's victory and playoff positioning underscore their resurgence as a competitive team after several years of missing the playoffs. Howard's ability to perform at a high level despite injury challenges reflects the resilience and talent within the league, contributing to the growing popularity and competitiveness of women's basketball.
What's Next?
The Atlanta Dream will prepare for their first-round playoff game, benefiting from home-court advantage. Howard's continued performance will be crucial as the team aims for a deep playoff run. The Dream's playoff format change to a 1-1-1 structure ensures each team will have at least one home game, providing an opportunity for fan engagement and support. The team's success could influence future coaching strategies and player development within the league.
