Atlanta Dream Defeats New York Liberty 95-84
Monday, September 21, 2026, 8:00 PM ET · Barclays Center
Atlanta Dream 95, New York Liberty 84, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Atlanta Dream vs New York Liberty?
Atlanta Dream beat New York Liberty 95-84 at Barclays Center on September 21, 2026.
Who was favored in Atlanta Dream vs New York Liberty?
Atlanta Dream were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -122 (about 55% implied). The favorite won.
In a crucial WNBA matchup, the Atlanta Dream secured a 95-84 victory over the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on September 22, 2026. This win allowed the Dream to take a 2-1 lead in their playoff series, which had been tightly contested, now showing a series record of 2-1 in favor of Atlanta after the teams entered the game tied 1-1.
Both teams entered the game with strong recent form. The New York Liberty had a record of 26-17 for the season and were riding a three-game winning streak, having scored an average of 90.9 points while allowing 82.3 in their last ten games, with a home record of 4-1 during that stretch. Their last five games showcased a record of 4-1, with an average of 90.6 points scored and 79.4 points allowed. In their most recent contest before facing Atlanta, the Liberty defeated the Toronto Tempo 106-69.
On the other hand, the Atlanta Dream boasted a slightly better record of 29-14 and also came into the game with a three-game winning streak. The Dream's recent performance included an average of 97.4 points scored and 81.6 points allowed over their last ten games, with a remarkable away record of 5-0 in that span. Their last game prior to this matchup saw them triumph over the Chicago Sky 106-81.
The matchup featured a notable absence for the Liberty, as Satou Sabally was out due to a concussion, and Elizabeth Balogun was also unavailable for non-injury-related reasons. The Dream faced their own challenge with Brionna Jones out due to a leg injury. These injuries undoubtedly affected the dynamics of the game, particularly for the Liberty, who were missing key contributors.
The market had priced the game with Atlanta favored by 1.5 points according to DraftKings, with a total set at 177.5. The odds reflected the competitive nature of the matchup, indicating that both teams were viewed as capable of winning, but the Dream were slightly favored given their better overall record.
The game itself unfolded with a competitive spirit, showcasing the offensive prowess of both teams. The Dream managed to maintain control for significant stretches, leveraging their scoring ability to build a lead. Key scoring plays in the fourth quarter included Angel Reese making crucial free throws to extend the Dream's lead, while Breanna Stewart of the Liberty fought to keep her team in contention with timely baskets.
As the game progressed, the Liberty struggled to close the gap, ultimately falling short despite a valiant effort. The final score reflected the Dream's ability to execute under pressure, particularly in the closing moments of the game. The Liberty's home crowd at Barclays Center witnessed a spirited contest, but it was the Dream who emerged victorious, further solidifying their position in the series.
Fans watching the game were treated to a display of high-level basketball, with both teams showcasing their offensive strategies and defensive efforts. The absence of key players added an element of unpredictability, making the outcome even more compelling. The Dream's victory sets the stage for the next game in the series, as both teams look to adjust and capitalize on their strengths moving forward.
What we said beforehand
The New York Liberty will face the Atlanta Dream at Barclays Center on September 22, 2026, in a matchup that could have significant implications for both teams as the WNBA season progresses. The Liberty currently lead the series 1-0 after their previous meeting on June 11, 2026, where they secured a decisive 104-90 victory.
Both teams are entering this game with strong recent performances. The Liberty have a home record of 26-16 and are coming off a three-game winning streak, having defeated the Toronto Tempo 106-69 in their last outing. In their last five games, they have won four, scoring an average of 90.6 points while allowing 79.4. Their recent victories include wins against the Indiana Fever (109-102), the Chicago Sky (85-66), and the Minnesota Lynx (93-81).
On the other side, the Atlanta Dream hold a slightly better overall record at 28-14. They are also on a three-game winning streak, most recently beating the Chicago Sky 106-81. In their last five games, the Dream have won four, averaging 91.8 points scored and allowing 78.6 points. Their victories include a dominant performance against the Connecticut Sun (103-59) and a win against the Minnesota Lynx (89-81).
When considering home and away performances, the Liberty have been strong at home with a record of 4-1 in their last five home games, while the Dream are undefeated in their last five away games, boasting a perfect 5-0 record. This contrast sets the stage for an intriguing matchup as the Liberty look to leverage their home advantage against the Dream's road success.
In terms of injuries, the Liberty will be without Satou Sabally due to a concussion and Elizabeth Balogun for non-injury-related reasons. The Dream will miss Brionna Jones, who is out with a leg injury. These absences could impact the strategies and rotations for both teams.
The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has Atlanta favored by 1.5 points, with a total set at 177.5. The odds reflect the competitive nature of this matchup, with the Liberty at +100 moneyline and the Dream at -120.
As the game approaches, viewers should watch for standout performances from key players. Breanna Stewart leads the Liberty in scoring with an average of 20.7 points per game, while Allisha Gray is the leading scorer for the Dream, averaging 19.0 points. Additionally, Jordin Canada has been a significant contributor for Atlanta, averaging 7.3 assists per game, while Pauline Astier leads for New York with 3.4 assists.
With both teams in solid form and key players capable of making a difference, this matchup promises to be an exciting contest in the WNBA.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | ATL -1.5 | 177.5 o -108 / u -112 | Atlanta Dream -122 · New York Liberty +102 |
Injury report
- Satou SaballyOutConcussionNew York Liberty
- Elizabeth BalogunOutNot Injury RelatedNew York Liberty
- Brionna JonesOutLegAtlanta Dream
Leaders
- PointsBreanna Stewart27New York Liberty
- AssistsLeonie Fiebich6New York Liberty
- ReboundsBreanna Stewart14New York Liberty
- PointsJordin Canada19Atlanta Dream
- AssistsJordin Canada9Atlanta Dream
- ReboundsAngel Reese10Atlanta Dream
Recent form
New York Liberty
Last 10: 7-3Streak W390.9 scored · 82.3 allowed per game4-1 at home
- W106-69at Toronto TempoSep 20
- W93-81at Minnesota LynxSep 18
- W85-66vs Chicago SkyAug 29
- L60-79vs Golden State ValkyriesAug 28
- W109-102vs Indiana FeverAug 22
- L86-93at Chicago SkyAug 19
- W82-75at Connecticut SunAug 15
- W85-81vs Los Angeles SparksAug 14
- L92-106at Indiana FeverAug 11
- W111-71vs Las Vegas AcesAug 9
Atlanta Dream
Last 10: 8-2Streak W397.4 scored · 81.6 allowed per game5-0 away
- W106-81vs Chicago SkySep 19
- W103-59vs Connecticut SunSep 17
- W89-81vs Minnesota LynxAug 30
- L83-101vs Portland FireAug 28
- W78-71at Los Angeles SparksAug 25
- W99-89at Phoenix MercuryAug 23
- W124-88at Los Angeles SparksAug 21
- W97-82at Las Vegas AcesAug 19
- L91-95vs Indiana FeverAug 16
- W104-69at Connecticut SunAug 13
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | - | 14 | W4 | .674 | 29 |
| Indiana | 1.5 | 15 | L1 | .643 | 27 |
| Washington | 2.5 | 16 | W2 | .619 | 26 |
| New York | 3 | 17 | L1 | .605 | 26 |
| Chicago | 13.5 | 27 | L5 | .357 | 15 |
| Toronto | 17.5 | 31 | L6 | .262 | 11 |
| Connecticut | 18.5 | 32 | L5 | .238 | 10 |
Box score
| Stat | Atlanta Dream | New York Liberty |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 32-67 | 30-71 |
| Field goal % | 48 | 42 |
| Three-pointers | 8-28 | 7-29 |
| Three-point % | 29 | 24 |
| Free throws | 23-30 | 17-23 |
| Free throw % | 77 | 74 |
| Rebounds | 32 | 40 |
| Offensive rebounds | 4 | 7 |
| Defensive rebounds | 28 | 33 |
| Assists | 17 | 23 |
| Steals | 7 | 2 |
| Blocks | 3 | 0 |
| Turnovers | 4 | 11 |
| Team turnovers | 2 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 1 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 1 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 2 | 14 |
| Fast-break points | 9 | 6 |
| Points in the paint | 44 | 44 |
| Fouls | 20 | 21 |
| Largest lead | 13 | 6 |
| Lead changes | 7 | 7 |
| Time in front | 53 | 34 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter63-55Te-Hina Paopao makes 27-foot three point jumper (Angel Reese assists)
- 3rd Quarter63-56Sabrina Ionescu makes free throw 1 of 2
- 3rd Quarter63-57Sabrina Ionescu makes free throw 2 of 2
- 3rd Quarter65-57Jordin Canada makes driving layup
- 3rd Quarter67-57Rhyne Howard makes driving layup (Jordin Canada assists)
- 3rd Quarter67-59Breanna Stewart makes 3-foot layup (Jonquel Jones assists)
- 3rd Quarter70-59Rhyne Howard makes 24-foot three pointer
- 3rd Quarter70-62Rebekah Gardner makes 26-foot three point jumper (Leonie Fiebich assists)
- 3rd Quarter73-62DeWanna Bonner makes 22-foot three point jumper (Jordin Canada assists)
- 4th Quarter75-62Allisha Gray makes 3-foot layup (Jordin Canada assists)
- 4th Quarter75-63Leonie Fiebich makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter75-65Breanna Stewart makes 11-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter76-65Rhyne Howard makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter77-65Rhyne Howard makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter77-68Rebecca Allen makes 25-foot three point jumper (Breanna Stewart assists)
- 4th Quarter78-68Jordin Canada makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-68Jordin Canada makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter79-71Jonquel Jones makes 23-foot three point jumper (Breanna Stewart assists)
- 4th Quarter81-71DeWanna Bonner makes running layup
- 4th Quarter82-71DeWanna Bonner makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter82-73Breanna Stewart makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter82-74Breanna Stewart makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter84-74Angel Reese makes layup (Jordin Canada assists)
- 4th Quarter84-75Sabrina Ionescu makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter84-76Sabrina Ionescu makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter86-76Jordin Canada makes driving layup
- 4th Quarter86-78Breanna Stewart makes 15-foot pullup jump shot
- 4th Quarter87-78Angel Reese makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-78Angel Reese makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter88-80Breanna Stewart makes driving layup (Pauline Astier assists)
- 4th Quarter89-80DeWanna Bonner makes technical free throw
- 4th Quarter90-80Angel Reese makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter91-80Angel Reese makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter91-82Breanna Stewart makes 8-foot driving floating jump shot (Pauline Astier assists)
- 4th Quarter91-83Breanna Stewart makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter92-83Jordin Canada makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter93-83Jordin Canada makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter93-84Jonquel Jones makes free throw 2 of 3
- 4th Quarter94-84Jordin Canada makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter95-84Jordin Canada makes free throw 2 of 2
Win probability
Above the line favours New York Liberty, below favours Atlanta Dream.
Venue
- Barclays CenterBrooklyn, NY
- Attendance16458
- OfficialsTim Greene, Randy Richardson, Angelica Suffren
Elsewhere
- Atlanta Dream beat the New York Liberty 95-84, close in on a top-4 WNBA seed
- Tracking WNBA MVP race, awards: Time to vote for the winners
- Las Vegas takes on Los Angeles, seeks 30th win this season
- Collier leads Minnesota against Indiana after 23-point outing
- Toronto faces Chicago on 11-game road slide
- Portland faces Golden State, looks to stop 4-game skid
- Connecticut takes on Washington, looks to stop 5-game slide
- Atlanta takes on New York following Reese's 23-point showing
WNBA rules and settlement
These two, other days
- New York Liberty at Atlanta Dream — WNBA: result pendingOct 14, 2026
- Atlanta Dream at New York Liberty — WNBA: result pendingOct 11, 2026
- Atlanta Dream Edges New York Liberty in Close ContestOct 9, 2026
- Atlanta Dream Edges New York Liberty in Overtime ThrillerOct 7, 2026
- Atlanta Dream Defeats New York Liberty 92-82Oct 4, 2026