ATLANTA (Interstat) — The Atlanta Dream (3-1) host the Phoenix Mercury (2-4) on Sunday at State Farm Arena, looking to extend their strong start against a visiting team still searching for consistency.

The Dream are coming off an 86-69 victory over the Dallas Wings on Friday, powered by guard Rhyne Howard, who posted 18 points, four rebounds and six assists. Atlanta has won three of its first four games this season, with its lone defeat coming by a single point in a 85-84 loss to Las Vegas on May 17.

Phoenix, meanwhile, has dropped four of its last five contests. The Mercury fell 97-88 to the Los Angeles Sparks on Thursday, despite 23 points, seven rebounds and seven assists from forward Alyssa Thomas. Kahleah Copper added 22 points and five rebounds in the loss.

Thomas has been a consistent force for Phoenix, averaging 17.7 points, 7.2 rebounds and 8.2 assists over her last six outings. She recorded a triple-double against Golden State on May 10 with 19 points, nine rebounds and 11 assists.

Howard has been equally vital for Atlanta, averaging 15.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 5.0 assists across her last three games. She also contributed two blocks in the win over Dallas.

The Mercury opened the season with a 99-66 rout of Las Vegas on May 9 but have since struggled, particularly on the road. Phoenix has lost two straight away from home.

Atlanta has been stingy defensively, holding opponents to 76.3 points per game over its last four outings.

Interstat’s game simulator projects a 95-87 victory for the Dream.

Both teams begin road trips after Sunday’s contest. Phoenix faces New York in a three-game series starting Tuesday, while Atlanta travels to Minnesota for a two-game set beginning Tuesday.