Atlanta Dream sweeps Liberty to reach its first WNBA Finals since 2013

The Atlanta Dream beat the New York Liberty 85-83 in Game 3 on October 9, completing a 3-0 semifinal sweep and securing its first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013.

The Dream stretched its advantage to 12 early in the second half, but the Liberty recovered and led entering the fourth quarter. A Sabrina Ionescu three-pointer extended New York’s lead to five. Atlanta answered, setting up a tense finish in which the teams traded important baskets.

Jordin Canada converted a difficult shot to put the Dream four points ahead with just over a minute remaining. Jonquel Jones reduced the margin, but subsequent Liberty opportunities ended with an Ionescu turnover and a Breanna Stewart miss. DeWanna Bonner secured Atlanta’s advantage at the free-throw line.

Angel Reese added nine rebounds to her 22 points. Canada finished with 19 points, 11 assists and no turnovers, while Bonner contributed 13 points and 13 rebounds. Jones led the Liberty with 26 points, 14 rebounds and three blocks, and Stewart also scored 26.

The Finals begin on October 17, with Atlanta awaiting either the Golden State Valkyries or Las Vegas Aces. The Dream was swept in each of its three previous Finals appearances. Its fourth trip offers another chance to claim the franchise’s first championship.