Allisha Gray Injures Hand in Dream's Playoff Win, Status Uncertain
Atlanta's leading scorer exited twice with a left hand injury during Game 1 of the WNBA semifinals against the Liberty.
Atlanta Dream star Allisha Gray suffered a left hand injury during Sunday's 92-82 victory over the New York Liberty, casting uncertainty over her availability for the remainder of the WNBA playoff semifinals.
Gray appeared to injure her pinky and ring fingers on her shooting hand during a play in the first quarter. She left the game and went to the locker room for treatment. Despite having her fingers taped, Gray re-entered the game in the second quarter but ultimately checked out again and returned to the locker room for good before the end of the first half.
Gray, who leads the Dream in scoring with an average of 19 points per game, was officially ruled out for the remainder of the game. Dream coach Karl Smesko expressed concern but remained hopeful.
"Hopefully she’ll be OK," Smesko said. "Obviously, she’s been a huge reason we’ve been so successful this year, and it was tough to see her not out there, but really proud of how the team pulled together and how they played in the game."
Meanwhile, the Liberty faced their own health concerns as Han Xu was a game-time decision due to illness. Han played eight minutes, contributing three points and two rebounds, despite feeling unwell. Jonquel Jones praised Han's effort, stating, "She’s locked in... she’s been great."
Liberty star Breanna Stewart played 40 minutes for the second consecutive game. When asked about potential burnout, Stewart has previously brushed off concern, and coach Chris DeMarco indicated the team would continue to monitor her minutes to ensure she is ready for upcoming games.