In an intense WNBA matchup, Makayla Timpson played a crucial role in leading Indiana to victory over the Atlanta Dream with a score of 95-91 on Sunday. Timpson achieved a career-high with 20 points, delivering Indiana’s initial three field goals in overtime. This win allowed Indiana to maintain their grip on fourth place in the standings.
Indiana boasts a record of 23-12, while Atlanta stands at 21-13. The top four teams secure homecourt advantage for the first round of playoffs. Allisha Gray was a standout player for Atlanta, equaling her career-high with 32 points.
Indiana’s Kelsey Mitchell made a significant impact with a layup in the closing 13.6 seconds of overtime, bringing her game total to 20 points. Her streak of scoring at least 20 points extended to 19 consecutive games. Caitlin Clark added 26 points and had nine assists, contributing crucial free throws following Atlanta’s narrowing of the lead to 93-91.
A pivotal moment arose when Mitchell’s three-pointer with 1:05 on the clock tied the game at 81-81. Atlanta’s failure to capitalize on their last possession in regulation was costly, leading into the additional period.
Sophie Cunningham, celebrating her 30th birthday, secured a 78-77 lead for Indiana with her basket and a subsequent free throw. The Dream faced adversity with the absence of point guard Jordin Canada due to illness, leading Jaylen Sherrod to make her initial career start in her third WNBA season. Additionally, Brionna Jones was sidelined with a left leg injury, with Coach Karl Smesko indicating uncertainty over her return.
The Dream fell behind 36-27 during the second quarter but rallied under Angel Reese’s leadership. Reese recorded 15 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, spearheading a 17-4 run that saw Atlanta ahead 44-40 at halftime.
Mitchell, struggling with only five points at halftime, found momentum with early baskets in the second half but faced challenges, acquiring her third foul in the third period.
Up Next
Fever: Indiana will face Toronto on Tuesday night.
Dream: Atlanta is set to compete in Las Vegas on Tuesday night.
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