Dream Shatter Lynx’s 14-Game Home Winning Streak in Thrilling 90‑86 Upset

On Sunday, July 27, 2025, the Atlanta Dream stormed into Minneapolis and ended the Minnesota Lynx’s franchise-record 14-game home winning streak with a gritty 90‑86 victory at Target Center. The loss marked the first home defeat for the 2025 Lynx squad, shocking fans and reshaping playoff momentum.

Atlanta’s Blake: Griner Leads with Season‑High 22 Points

Star center Brittney Griner delivered a masterful performance, pouring in a season-high 22 points, including 17 in the first half, anchoring both offense and floor defense. Her inside presence disrupted the Lynx flow early and set the tone for a Dream that shot an impressive 69.2% from the field in the second quarter.

Supporting roles shone too: Jordin Canada scored 18 points, while Shatori Walker‑Kimbrough and Allisha Gray each chipped in 12, helping Atlanta maintain poise as the Lynx mounted a comeback.

Collier Carries Lynx But Comeback Falls Short

Minnesota’s engine, Napheesa Collier, erupted for 32 points on 14-of-18 shooting, adding eight rebounds, seven assists, four steals, and two blocks. Despite her electric drive, the Lynx couldn’t pull off the rally.

Other contributors: Alanna Smith added 12 points, Courtney Williams quacked in with 11 and nine assists, and Natisha Hiedeman logged 10. The balanced attack wasn't enough to overcome Atlanta’s efficient offense.

Key Shifts: Momentum & Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown

Atlanta dominated early, outscoring Minnesota 24‑13 in the second quarter, building a 14-point halftime lead. The Lynx cut the gap towards the end, pulling within three with a Collier basket with 11.3 seconds left. But Jordin Canada’s free throw at 7 seconds iced it.

In the fourth, the Dream started with six straight makes before a pivotal Collier block shifted momentum. Atlanta regained control, sinking three more consecutive buckets.

What Made the Difference: Stats and Shooting Splits

The Dream shot a blistering 71% from the field in three quarters, pushing Minnesota into early foul trouble and forcing difficult mid-range jumpers. Their ball movement and pressure disrupted typical Lynx rhythm.

Minnesota still posted 56.1% shooting overall, but struggled with three-point accuracy and was outscored at the foul line. Their bench failed to match the Dream’s depth and late execution.

The Bigger Picture: Legacy of the Streak

Minnesota had built a dominant 22‑5 overall record, sporting a 14‑1 home stretch prior to Sunday. That home stretch was the fourth-longest in WNBA history, underlining the significance of the loss.

The Dynasties-winning squad entered the game riding a four-game overall win streak, making the Dream’s upset even more impactful.

What This Means for Playoff Picture and Team Futures

The Dream, now 15‑10, gain confidence as underdogs pushing deeper into playoff contention. This win showcases their potential and determination to disrupt elite teams.

Meanwhile, Minnesota faces pressure to regroup before hosting the New York Liberty on July 30, a rematch of last season’s WNBA Finals rivals. Their undefeated home aura has ended—now it's resilience time.

Why the Lynx Comeback Didn’t Click

Despite Collier’s heroics, persistent third-quarter turnovers and shaky defense hurt Minnesota. Early execution issues allowed Atlanta to strike first and maintain control until late.

Internal struggles also emerged: Kayla McBride and Bridget Carleton shot a combined 1-of-12—reflecting a broader slump that undermined offensive balance.

Bench energy from Atlanta also tipped scales. Players like Naz Hillmon and role contributors delivered in crunch moments when Lynx zippers faltered.

Key Player Highlights

• Napheesa Collier: Astounding box score (32 pts, 8 reb, 7 ast, 4 stl, 2 blk) in defeat. Dominated Minnesota’s offense.
• Brittney Griner: Season-best performance of 22 points, anchored Dream’s early lead and interior control.
• Jordin Canada: Clutch free throw closed the game and delivered steady playmaking with 18 points.
• Walker-Kimbrough & Gray: Each with 12 points, key contributors in late-game rhythm for Dream.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Lynx and Dream

For Minnesota, this marks the close of a four-game homestand and a tough lesson in consistency. Their next challenge comes Wednesday, July 30, hosting the Liberty in what looms as a defining rematch in the standings.

Atlanta will carry momentum forward as they resume their road trip, hoping this signature win unlocks more consistency against elite competition.

Final Takeaway: A Game of Peaks, Pressure, and Poise

This wasn’t just a loss—it was a statement. Atlanta exploited early weaknesses, executed in crunch time, and withstood Minnesota’s rally. Collier’s brilliance nearly shifted the narrative, but the Dream’s cohesion and late-game composure sealed the upset.

Now Minnesota faces the task of refocusing before challenging Liberty and continuing to chase a championship trajectory. Their aura as a fortress at home has cracked—can they rebuild it?