Atlanta Dream fans expressed disbelief after the team's WNBA Finals elimination game was scheduled for a daytime tip-off on October 26, 2026, just hours before the Atlanta Hawks' NBA game at the same arena. The unusual scheduling puts the Dream's championship-deciding contest in the afternoon, potentially limiting attendance and viewership as the city's focus shifts to the Hawks' evening matchup.
The Dream, facing elimination in the WNBA Finals, will play Game 5 at 1:00 PM ET, while the Hawks are set to host their NBA game at 7:30 PM ET at State Farm Arena. Critics argue the daytime slot undermines the significance of the WNBA Finals game and creates logistical challenges for fans hoping to attend both events.
Malik Brown of ClutchPoints reported on the fan reaction, noting that many consider the scheduling a disservice to the Dream's historic playoff run.
