Storm vs Dream predictions
When you look at the Seattle Storm heading into this matchup, it’s hard not to focus on the spark that Skylar Diggins brings every time she steps onto the court. Averaging just under 19 points and dishing out more than six assists per game, there’s every reason to believe she’ll be busy crafting plays and hunting her own shot against Atlanta’s defense. Nneka Ogwumike can’t be ignored either—her near-eight rebounds a night make her a key force on the glass, and in a close showdown like this, every board could matter. If these two get into an early rhythm, expect Seattle to find their groove quickly and make things really interesting at Gateway Center.
Switching gears to the Atlanta Dream, Allisha Gray has become Mr. Reliable, quietly putting up nearly 20 points per contest this season. After Brionna Jones' impressive showing with 21 points last game, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her riding that wave of confidence, especially when crashing the boards. As for Rhyne Howard, who’s listed as day-to-day, her playmaking is always a difference-maker when healthy, sitting close to five assists a night. If Atlanta gets even a slightly vintage performance from Howard, chances are their offense looks much smoother and harder to stop.
Thinking about which squad will walk away with the win? Atlanta’s strong home record and the fact that they already hold a victory in this series make them look like the slight favorite, especially with the energy their fans bring at Gateway Center. But let’s be real, with Seattle’s veteran leadership and ability to put together a run at any point, this could go right down to the wire. The Dream have a little extra edge at home, so the gut says Atlanta pulls out a tight one, but you never really know until that final buzzer sounds, right?