Clash in the W: Dream Upset Lynx in a Thrilling Showdown
Overview of the Rivalry and Today’s Big Story
The Atlanta Dream and the Minnesota Lynx remain fierce competitors in the WNBA. As of July 27, 2025, the Dream upset the Lynx, handing them their first home loss of the season, 90‑86, in a dramatic late-season thriller.
Game Recap — Dream Stun Undefeated Lynx
-
Final Score: Dream 90, Lynx 86
-
Key Factors:
-
Atlanta forced 10 first‑half turnovers, creating early momentum.
-
Brittney Griner dominated inside with 17 first‑half points, anchoring a tough defense.
-
Napheesa Collier tried to bring Minnesota back with 32 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, 4 steals, but it wasn’t enough.
-
Minnesota’s Kayla McBride and Bridget Carleton combined for just 2 points on 1‑of‑12 shooting, a major contributor to the loss.
-
Why Today Matters
Rising Upsets & Momentum Shifts
-
The Lynx’s 14‑0 home record was snapped—and their psychological edge weakened.
-
Dream role players like Naz Hillmon and Jordin Canada stepped up big time in the clutch.
Leadership & Strategy Spotlighted
-
Atlanta’s reliance on Griner’s inside presence paid off.
-
Minnesota's dependence on Collier wasn’t matched by needed support from role players.
Recent Meeting Results – Dream vs Lynx
| Date | Winner | Final Score | Location | MVP / Keys to Win |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 27, 2025 | Dream | 90–86 | Minneapolis | Griner’s early surge, turnovers forced |
| Jun 27, 2025 | Lynx | 81–68 | Atlanta (visited Lynx) | Strong defense, Collier & team effort |
| Sep 11, 2024 | Lynx | 76–64 | Atlanta (hosted Dream) | McBride fourth‑quarter push |
| Jul 17, 2024 | Lynx | 86–79 | Minnesota (host) | Hiedeman & McBride combined |
| Jun 20, 2024 | Lynx | 68–55 | Minnesota (host) | Collier strong, Dream offensive struggles |
Takeaways from Today’s Dream Victory
-
Moment of Shock: Atlanta ended Minnesota’s perfect home streak, shaking the W’s dominance.
-
Turnover Control: Dream forced 10 turnovers early—set the tone from the start.
-
Role Players Rise: Griner, Hillmon, Canada and others carried the load.
-
Collier Heroics Not Enough: Despite 32 point effort, Collier lacked support when it mattered.
-
Depth & Execution: Dream showed stronger team execution; Lynx shot poorly beyond Collier.
Expert Commentary & Fan Reactions
Fans r/WNBA echoed the sentiment:
“The Dream really struggled to get offense going… iso ball” — after earlier losses
“McBride legit has not missed a shot today… What a game” — but noted off‑night for her this time
Today's game flipped that narrative—Atlanta played cohesively, while Minnesota faltered.
Final Thoughts
The July 27, 2025 result signals a turning point in Dream vs Lynx rivalry. Atlanta showed they can take down even the top seed at their fortress—without their All-Star Rhyne Howard. Minnesota must regroup quickly, as Napheesa Collier alone can’t carry a team lacking offensive consistency, especially when teammates struggle to score. Meanwhile, the Dream’s bench depth and situational execution under pressure highlight their emerging playoff-caliber potential.
