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Atlanta Dream Clinch Playoff Spot With 99-89 Win

8/23/2026

33 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Atlanta Dream secured a playoff spot with a 99-89 victory over the Phoenix Mercury.
Angel Reese posted a career-high 31 points, 14 rebounds and her 25th double-double of the season.
Kahleah Copper scored 38 points as Phoenix missed the playoffs, first team after a Finals appearance since 2008.
Phoenix played without star Kelsey Plum, who is out indefinitely with a calf injury.

History

Historical Context

Since the WNBA’s 1997 launch with eight teams and the Houston Comets’ 65-51 inaugural championship led by Cynthia Cooper, the league has expanded and reshaped its competitive balance. The Atlanta Dream, an expansion franchise added in 2008, secured a playoff spot with a 99-89 win over the Phoenix Mercury, underscoring the parity envisioned from the league’s early years.

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Story summary

Atlanta Dream secured a playoff spot with a 99-89 victory over the Phoenix Mercury.
Angel Reese posted a career-high 31 points, 14 rebounds and her 25th double-double of the season.
Kahleah Copper scored 38 points as Phoenix missed the playoffs, first team after a Finals appearance since 2008.
Phoenix played without star Kelsey Plum, who is out indefinitely with a calf injury.

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