What happened: Howard was named Player of the Game after two-way production on offense and defense. Atlanta led 81-67 with five minutes remaining.
Why it matters: The outing reasserts Howard as Atlanta's central postseason option on both ends. Her 134 three-pointers stood as the single-season mark until this week, framing her scoring baseline for this run.
By the numbers: Howard: 26 points, 5 steals. Atlanta +14 with 5:00 remaining (81-67).
What to watch: Atlanta moves on to its next postseason matchup with opening-win momentum.