Naz Hillmon delivered a clutch performance, sinking a decisive 3-pointer with just 2.6 seconds remaining, propelling the Atlanta Dream to an 88-85 win against the Dallas Wings on Wednesday night. Hillmon's fourth-quarter surge included 12 of her career-high 21 points, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
Supporting Hillmon, Allisha Gray contributed 15 points, while Brionna Jones added 14 and Maya Caldwell recorded a season-high 13 points for Atlanta, who improved to 16-11. The Dream's balanced scoring was crucial in a tightly contested matchup.
On the opposing side, Paige Bueckers led the Wings with 21 points, including nine in the final five minutes, marking her 11th game this season with at least 20 points. Bueckers' late-game efforts included a pivotal 3-pointer that briefly gave Dallas a one-point advantage with 2:36 left on the clock.
After Bueckers' shot, Brionna Jones responded with a basket inside, but Bueckers was fouled on a driving layup, converting the free throw to push Dallas ahead 83-81 with two minutes remaining. The back-and-forth continued as Te-Hina Paopao executed a driving layup and then connected with Jones for another layup, reclaiming a two-point lead for Atlanta with just 34 seconds left.
Arike Ogunbowale countered with a fadeaway jumper for Dallas, narrowing the gap before Hillmon sealed the game with her final shot. Earlier in the game, Gray's 11 points helped Atlanta establish a 26-21 lead by the end of the first quarter, a critical advantage considering Dallas' struggles when trailing at halftime this season.
In a surprising turn of events, Atlanta's Brittney Griner received two technical fouls in quick succession for arguing a call, resulting in her ejection less than a minute into the third quarter. Additionally, Jordin Canada was sidelined due to illness.
Dallas entered the contest following a notable 92-82 victory over the New York Liberty, the reigning WNBA champions. The Wings will conclude their four-game homestand on Friday against Indiana, while the Dream prepare to face Phoenix at home.
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