The Atlanta Dream are two wins away from making their first WNBA Finals appearance since 2013. Their playoff run could create some scheduling issues.
Atlanta has hosted postseason games at State Farm Arena instead of Gateway Center, where the team played most of its regular-season contests. The Dream shifted from the 3,500-seat venue to the home of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks to accommodate more attendees.
However, the Dream haven’t confirmed where they will play home games if they advance past the New York Liberty to make the Finals. Colin Salao noted that State Farm Arena has scheduling conflicts on all three potential dates for Dream homes games.
State Farm Arena has a Sombr concert scheduled for Oct. 22, the same day as Game 3. The Hawks will play home games on Oct. 24 and 29, creating roadblocks for the stadium to host Games 4 and 6.
“We’re finalizing the details around our home venue and, if we advance, will share that information ASAP,” a spokesperson told Salao.
Meanwhile, a potential Finals opponent has already resolved a potential conflict.
Doja Cat is scheduled to perform at Chase Center on Oct. 19, the same day as Game 2. The Golden State Valkyries will hold home-court advantage over either the Dream or Liberty if they win their semifinal matchup against the Las Vegas Aces.
However, the Valkyries confirmed to Salao that the venue would host all Finals games if they advance. The Doja Cat concert would be moved to a different date.
Dream announce State Farm Arena as new home
Brett Davis-Imagn Images
While uncertainty remains over where the Dream would play in the Finals, they announced a multi-year deal to play all home games at State Farm Arena starting next season. Atlanta had sold out every game at Gateway Center Arena over the past three years.
“This is an exciting next chapter for the Atlanta Dream, and a direct reflection of the exciting style of play that is Dream basketball, the passion of our fans and the incredible growth of this franchise,” Dream COO Morgan Shaw Parker said. “Our players and our fans have transformed Gateway Center Arena into the most exciting experience in the WNBA. State Farm Arena gives us the opportunity to welcome thousands of additional fans while creating an even bigger stage for women’s basketball in Atlanta. We look forward to bringing the energy, traditions and spirit of Gateway with us to the heart of our city.”
The Dream followed a first-round sweep over the Washington Mystics with a Game 1 semifinals win over the Liberty. They’ll look to take a commanding 2-0 lead at State Farm Arena on Wednesday night.
