Atlanta jumped out to an early 14 point lead against Connecticut but a big second quarter by the Sun proved to be the difference as they went on to defeat the Dream by a score of 96-87. Defense will once again the focal point for coach Marynell Meadors as Atlanta allowed the Sun to shoot 53 percent from the field and 64 percent from three point range.
Atlanta looked solid building that 14 point lead in the first quarter with good defense and a balanced scoring attack. Case in point was Lindsey Harding who had seven assists in the first quarter but just two more over the next three quarters of play. Angel McCoughtry was a bundle of good and bad scoring 22 points on 7 of 20 shooting but also committed five turnovers and some silly fouls to go along with some questionable shot selection. Erika de Souza logged a double double with 17 points and 10 rebounds while Harding added 14 and Armintie Price chipped in 12.
Atlanta kept things close in the second half but never could come up with the key stop or key rebound they needed to retake the lead. Renee Montgomery led the way for Connecticut with 21 points and eight assists while Asjha Jones and Tina Charles each finished with 18.
The Dream never found their rhythm after the first quarter with McCoughtry taking it upon herself to try and force the action. While McCoughtry is instrumental to the team's success on most nights, tonight's game was an example where the team likely would have benefited from a more team first approach.
Atlanta will continue its road trip on Tuesday with a stop in Chicago to take on the Sky.
For more on the Atlanta Dream and the WNBA, be sure and check out Swish Appeal.