The Atlanta Dream and Washington Mystics face off in their season opener at Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington, D.C. Both teams underwent significant roster changes in the offseason, making this an intriguing matchup to kick off the 2025 WNBA campaign.
Game Details
- Date: Friday, May 16, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Venue: Entertainment & Sports Arena, Washington, D.C.
- TV Broadcast: ION
Team Overview
Atlanta Dream (2024 Record: 19-21, 6th in WNBA standings)
- Win Probability: Favored (-3.5 spread, -185 moneyline)
- Key Players:
- Rhyne Howard (All-Star guard, 2024 stats: 17.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG)
- Allisha Gray (versatile scorer, 2024 stats: 15.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG)
- Brittney Griner (new acquisition, dominant post presence)
- Strengths:
- Strong offensive firepower with Howard and Gray leading the charge
- Improved interior defense with Griner’s presence
- Experienced roster with championship aspirations
Washington Mystics (2024 Record: 13-27, 10th in WNBA standings)
- Win Probability: Underdog (+150 moneyline)
- Key Players:
- Sonia Citron (rookie standout, expected to make an impact)
- Kiki Iriafen (top draft pick, strong rebounding ability)
- Georgia Amoore (promising young guard)
- Challenges:
- Rebuilding phase with a young core
- Lack of veteran leadership compared to Atlanta
- Defensive struggles in previous seasons
Matchup Breakdown
- Dream’s Edge: Atlanta boasts a more experienced roster, with proven scorers and defensive anchors. Their ability to control the pace and dominate the paint will be key.
- Mystics’ Hope: Washington must capitalize on youthful energy and push the tempo. If their rookies can step up early, they could keep the game competitive.
- X-Factor: Brittney Griner vs. Kiki Iriafen – Griner’s dominance in the post could be a deciding factor, but Iriafen’s rebounding ability will be crucial for Washington.
GAME ODDS
Atlanta Dream – 4
Washington Mystics 155.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 15, 2025
