NFL
By: Nick Andre
The fourth quarter is always one where the best players shine. They rise to the occasion and capture the moment with one big play after another. The Atlanta Dream took down the Dallas Wings 83-78 in their home opener, improving their record to 2-1 on the season. One of the biggest stories of the early season has been Allisha Gray and her fourth-quarter heroics.
Last season, Gray found a new home in Atlanta. After playing several seasons in Dallas, the wing sensation was able to play a bigger role under head coach Tanisha Wright and blossom before our very eyes. Gray averaged a career-high 17.1 points and five rebounds, earning her first WNBA All-Star appearance.
Coming off her first season in Atlanta, the question was how could Gray capitalize heading into the 2024 season. The Dream had a terrific off-season with new acquisitions that elevated them to becoming a top contender in the WNBA. With that being said, the star players knew they needed to step up to the plate. Being the second option behind Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray had the responsibility to set the tone on both ends of the floor.
It’s been an early rollercoaster journey for the Atlanta Dream. The team started the season on a positive note with their road win over the Los Angeles Sparks on May 15. Three nights later, the team fell to the Phoenix Mercury after watching Kahleah Copper explode for 37 points. Despite Phoenix being in control most of the contest, some positives came from the contest down the stretch.
When the Dream was in a funk, Allisha Gray stepped up to the plate. She did a terrific job of breaking down the defense and getting to her spots in multiple areas of the floor. Gray also set the tone defensively in the fourth quarter by getting into passing lanes and altering shots. Gray led the comeback in the fourth quarter with 10 points along with two blocks. Unfortunately, her energy wasn’t enough to lift her team to a win.
Last night was a different story. The Dream wanted to win their home opener against the Wings. They also seemed revenge after being swept by this team in the first round last season. While Dallas had control in the first half, the Dream found a way to snatch momentum. Down the stretch of the fourth quarter, Allisha Gray once again made difficult shots while also forcing turnovers on defense. In a tight game, it comes down to who wants to win more than the other. Gray’s energy may have not always shown up in the stat sheet but it played a big role in the Dream capturing another win.
There are a couple of reasons why Gray is coming alive in the fourth quarter. One is because of her competitive spirit and refusal to lose. It can also be because Gray understands that last season the Dream had their struggles in the second half down the stretch. Luckily, there may not be a repeat of the struggles that took place last season. With Gray continuing to set the tone, the Dream will find a way to come out on top in games this season.
