Atlanta Dream’s Rhyne Howard faces uncertainty over her participation in the upcoming 2025 WNBA All-Star Game after sustaining a left knee injury during a game against the Indiana Fever. The team confirmed on Monday that Howard will miss the All-Star event scheduled for July 19 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, with no specific timeline provided for her full recovery.
Howard suffered the injury while going up for a rebound in the first half of a game that ended in a 99-82 loss for the Dream on Friday. Despite managing to return to the court in the second half, her presence was not enough to alter the team‘s outcome. The Atlanta Dream organization has withheld further details on her recovery, stating only that updates will come when appropriate.
Details of the Injury and Immediate Impact
The injury occurred without contact, raising concerns about Howard’s condition and the severity of the knee issue. She had to be assisted off the floor initially, which left fans and teammates anxious about her status. Atlanta Dream sit just behind the New York Liberty in the Eastern Conference standings, so Howard’s absence could significantly affect their playoff positioning and overall momentum.
Fans took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing a mix of concern, frustration, and hope regarding Howard’s injury and her decision to return to play in the second half.
“She wanted to beat the Fever so bad that she tried to play the second half on a bum knee. That’s wild,” a fan said. —fan
“I know it’s the Fever, but was it really worth it to come back on the floor?” another fan questioned the team’s decision to bring her back in the second half. —fan
“So why did she play the 2nd half? She probably made the injury worse,” one fan pointed out the same logic. —fan
“Wishing her a strong recovery and hopeful return,” a comment read. —fan
“Hopefully she heals fast,” someone commented. —someone
Rhyne Howard’s Season Performance and Importance to the Team
This season, Howard has appeared in 19 games, delivering impressive averages of 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. Her performance has established her as a critical component for the Dream’s success and an expected choice for a third All-Star appearance. Losing her at this crucial time adds pressure on the team to adapt quickly.
Potential Replacements for Howard in the All-Star Game
With Howard sidelined, discussions have emerged about who might fill her spot in the 2025 All-Star roster. A possible replacement from within the Atlanta Dream is Brionna Jones, though her role as a frontcourt player clashes with Howard’s backcourt position, presenting structural challenges for the lineup balance.
Alternatively, Brittney Sykes of the Washington Mystics stands out as a more suitable candidate for Howard’s All-Star slot. Sykes, averaging 17.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across 18 games this season, has been delivering one of the strongest performances of her career.
Additionally, Sykes has played a mentorship role for the Mystics’ rookie guards, Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron, both of whom achieved All-Star status this year. This connection further strengthens Sykes’ candidacy to replace Howard in the upcoming game, preserving the backcourt representation that Howard’s absence leaves vacant.
What Lies Ahead for the Atlanta Dream and Rhyne Howard
The duration of Howard’s absence remains unclear, leaving the Atlanta Dream with significant uncertainty as they manage their roster through the remainder of the season. Her potential delay or inability to recover in time for the All-Star Game not only affects the event lineup but also threatens to impact the Dream’s playoff aspirations in the tightly contested Eastern Conference.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates from the organization as Howard’s rehabilitation progresses. The team’s ability to adjust and find effective replacements will be crucial for maintaining their competitive edge moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Caitlin Clark say to Rhyne Howard?
A. Rhyne Howard played tough defense against Clark, who felt pressure early on. This led to a quick confrontation in the first quarter after a routine foul. As they were pulled apart, it seemed like Clark said, “I’m not scared of you.”