Mercury Sweep Dream in 2021 Finals Rematch

Phoenix Mercury dominate Atlanta Dream in regular season series, setting up potential WNBA Finals showdown

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:20pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a WNBA basketball game between the Phoenix Mercury and Atlanta Dream, with the players' movements and the court's energy broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in a vibrant, multi-perspective composition.The Phoenix Mercury's dominant season sweep of the Atlanta Dream showcased their versatility and depth, setting the stage for a thrilling WNBA Finals appearance.Chicago Today

The Phoenix Mercury had a remarkable 2021 season, making it all the way to the WNBA Finals despite a 19-13 regular season record. Along the way, they dominated certain opponents, including a 3-0 season sweep of the Chicago Sky. But their most impressive feat may have been their dominance over the Atlanta Dream, winning all three matchups in convincing fashion.

Why it matters

The Mercury's ability to handle the Dream so easily during the regular season raises questions about their potential in the playoffs. If they can continue this level of play, they may be poised for a deep postseason run and a chance at redemption after falling short in the Finals. The Dream, on the other hand, will need to find a way to solve the Mercury if they hope to make noise in the Eastern Conference.

The details

In the first matchup, the Mercury won 92-81 at home, led by Skylar Diggins' 19 points, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds. Diana Taurasi and Sophie Cunningham also made significant contributions. The next game in Atlanta saw the Mercury win again, 84-69, with Diggins once more leading the way. The final regular season meeting was a close one, with the Mercury edging the Dream 76-75, with Shey Peddy hitting the game-winning shot.

  • The Mercury swept the Dream in the regular season, winning on July 4, July 29, and August 11.
  • The teams could potentially meet again in the 2021 WNBA Finals.

The players

Skylar Diggins

A star guard for the Phoenix Mercury, Diggins led the team in scoring and assists during the regular season sweep of the Dream.

Diana Taurasi

The veteran leader of the Mercury, Taurasi contributed significantly to the team's victories over the Dream.

Sophie Cunningham

A key role player for the Mercury, Cunningham provided valuable production in the wins against the Dream.

Shey Peddy

The hero of the final regular season matchup, Peddy hit the game-winning shot to secure the Mercury's sweep of the Dream.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to play with the same intensity and focus that we showed against the Dream. They are a tough opponent, but we proved we can beat them.”

— Skylar Diggins, Phoenix Mercury Guard

“The Mercury are a force to be reckoned with, and their dominance over the Dream is a clear statement of their championship aspirations.”

— Candace Parker, WNBA Analyst

What’s next

The Mercury and Dream could potentially meet again in the 2021 WNBA Finals, setting up a rematch of their regular season battles. If the Mercury can maintain their high level of play, they may have a chance to avenge their Finals loss from the previous season.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Mercury's regular season sweep of the Atlanta Dream showcases their depth, versatility, and championship potential. If they can carry this momentum into the playoffs, they may be poised for a deep run and a chance at redemption after falling short in the 2021 WNBA Finals.