Rhyne Howard delivered a spectacular performance on Friday, tying the WNBA record for most 3-pointers made in a single game with nine, while scoring a season-high 36 points. Her outstanding shooting propelled the Atlanta Dream to an 88-70 win over the Chicago Sky, highlighting her crucial role in the team’s success.

Though Howard did not score in the first quarter, she played a vital part in Atlanta’s momentum shift, contributing 11 points during the decisive 18-3 run in the fourth quarter. Her second-half surge was a turning point in the game, drawing high praise from Dream head coach Karl Smesko.

Karl Smesko Highlights Howard’s Impactful Second Half Rally

Karl Smesko emphasized the significance of Howard’s performance after halftime, describing her ability to maintain a strong rhythm throughout the second half. This game marked Howard’s ninth career 30-point outing, placing her second in Atlanta Dream history behind Angel McCoughtry’s 32 such games. Furthermore, her nine made 3-pointers established a new franchise record, besting Renee Montgomery’s previous top mark of eight set in 2018.

“The big story of the day is Rhyne’s second half, how she just got it going and kept it going,”

—Karl Smesko, Atlanta Dream head coach

Howard’s Record-Setting Performance Strengthens Atlanta’s Position

Howard’s career milestone not only reinforces her status as a premier scorer in the league but also energizes the Atlanta Dream in their pursuit of playoff success. Her consistent threat from beyond the arc forced the Chicago Sky to adjust defensively, allowing Atlanta to control the pace and space on the floor. This dominant showing is likely to elevate Howard’s role as the team’s leading offensive weapon.

The Atlanta Dream’s triumph over the Chicago Sky marks an important step as they aim to solidify their standing this season, with Howard’s sharpshooting skills potentially becoming a defining factor in their campaign moving forward. Her ability to heat up quickly and maintain that intensity can serve as an inspiration to the team and fans alike, signaling a promising future for Atlanta basketball.