LAS VEGAS, NV — Atlanta Dream turned in a dominant all-around performance, leading from the opening tip to defeat the Las Vegas Aces 79-72 and capture the franchise’s first Commissioner’s Cup championship.

Rhyne Howard led all scorers with 22 points, while Allisha Gray added 20. Brittney Griner scored Atlanta’s first basket after winning the opening tip and recorded a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

The Dream never trailed, building a 20-12 advantage after the opening quarter before stretching it to 41-30 at halftime. Atlanta capitalized on Las Vegas’ cold shooting from beyond the arc, as the Aces made just 3 of 22 three-point attempts in the first half. The Dream shot 39 percent from the field compared to the Aces’ 29 percent, turning defensive stops into valuable scoring opportunities.

Both teams found their rhythm after the break. Howard poured in 12 third-quarter points and Gray added 10 as Atlanta scored 24 points in the period to maintain control. Although Las Vegas improved offensively, shooting 54 percent in the quarter, the Aces still entered the fourth trailing 65-49.

Las Vegas mounted a late rally, outscoring Atlanta 23-14 in the final quarter, but the comeback fell short.

A’ja Wilson paced the Aces with 21 points and nine rebounds, while Chelsea Gray finished with 19 points and 10 assists.

The victory marked the first Commissioner’s Cup championship in franchise history for the Dream.