Karl Smesko sends powerful message as Dream go up 2-1 over Valkyries

The Atlanta Dream have taken control of the WNBA Finals after crushing the Golden State Valkyries, 97-71, in Game 3 at State Farm Arena on Wednesday and gaining the upper hand, 2-1, in the best-of-seven series.

The Dream carried a six-point advantage at halftime before blowing the game open in the third quarter. They never looked back, leading by as much as 26 points.

While coach Karl Smesko acknowledged their strong performance, he also issued a stern reminder to his players.

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"I like the energy we played with, even after getting off to a little slow start in the second half. You guys on your own regrouped, figured it out, and made all the plays," said Smesko in the video posted by USA Sports.

"We should be happy with the way we competed today. But we have to be cognizant that it is only halfway done. The job is only halfway done. There's more work to be done, and we're going to do it."

Angel Reese was phenomenal anew, tallying 21 points, 12 rebounds, three assists, and three steals. Reese set the tone early, including talking smack to the Valkyries in the first quarter .

Rhyne Howard bounced back from her meager output in Game 2, tallying 16 points, four rebounds, four assists, and five steals.

Naz Hillmon contributed 15 points and two rebounds, while Isobel Borlase had 12 points and five rebounds.

The Dream have no time to be overcomplacent, especially against the Valkyries, who have shown throughout their inspired run that they can overcome tall obstacles, including dethroning the Las Vegas Aces.