Angel Reese’s shooting surge gives Atlanta a Game 7 boost

Reese’s improved offense has become a key part of Atlanta’s title push. The Dream are 16-0 this season when she makes at least one three-pointer, including all three of their Finals victories over Golden State. In 11 playoff games, she has made 10 of 26 attempts from beyond the arc, a 38.5% rate—well above her 18.9% career average entering the season.

Atlanta’s coaches built a regular shooting routine with Reese after she joined the team in April. After each practice, she works on three-pointers and finishes from different spots and situations. Assistant coach LaToya Sanders said Reese has kept up the routine consistently, and that her growing comfort has helped her shots come more naturally.

Reese’s field-goal percentage also rose during the regular season, from 41.3% in its first two months to 48.6% in its last two. In Atlanta’s three Finals wins, she shot 47.8% from the field, compared with a 43.4% career mark. Coaches have also worked with her on reading defenders and finding teammates such as Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray when a shot is not the best option.

Her offense has been less efficient recently: Reese went 5-for-18 in Game 6, while Howard and Gray carried much of the scoring. She has also struggled against Golden State’s Kiah Stokes. Reese said her teammates continue to encourage her to shoot, and her performance in Game 7 could prove important as Atlanta seeks the championship.