Dream continue strong playoff push against struggling Sun

Brionna Jones is giving the Atlanta Dream another reason to feel good as they travel to face the Connecticut Sun Thursday in Uncasville, Conn.

After winning seven of its last nine games, Atlanta (20-12) is firmly in playoff position, entering Thursday's game fifth in the WNBA standings, just two games back of third-place Las Vegas.

Jones, a four-time WNBA All-Star, had her best performance Monday since returning from a torn meniscus, scoring 15 points in a 107-95 win over Toronto in her eighth game back in action.

"I feel like I'm still trying to find my feet a little bit," Jones said. "I think my teammates have my back. They know what I'm capable of. It feels good to get out there and contribute a little bit more, but I'm still trying to give myself grace --- that's been the hardest part for me."

The Dream already have a potent backcourt with Allisha Gray, who is ninth in the WNBA in scoring at 18.9 points a game, and Rhyne Howard, who sank her 100th three of the season in the win over Toronto, the fastest any player in league history has made 100 threes in a season (31 games).

Throw in Angel Reese down low for the Dream and Atlanta looks like a contender. Reese leads the WNBA in rebounding at 11.9 boards per game. She earned her 22nd double-double of the season against Toronto, setting a new Dream single-season franchise record.

The Sun (8-23) ended a five-game losing streak with a 75-72 win over Phoenix on Friday. The game marked the return of Brittney Griner to the lineup after missing several games with a knee injury. Griner had a dramatic block of a Kelsey Plum three in the final seconds to preserve the win.

"I hope that she could just help our team to flip the dynamic," said Sun coach Rachid Meziane. "And I do think that tonight was a good opportunity for us to change our dynamic and to finish this season in the best way."

Atlanta beat the Sun 91-75 June 2 in a Commissioners Cup game and has won the last four meetings.

--Field Level Media