Valkyries Edge Dream in Defensive Slugfest
Gabby Williams delivered a clutch performance, converting critical free throws in the final moments to lift the Golden State Valkyries to a 68-64 victory over the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday. The win marks the first-ever Finals appearance for both franchises, setting the stage for a fierce battle for the championship title.
Williams finished with 26 points, scoring 16 of them in the second quarter alone. Her heroics came despite constant pressure from Atlanta’s stingy defence, and no other Valkyries player reached double figures as the team shot just 32.1 per cent from the field and 7-of-33 from beyond the arc.
“We always knew we were going to find a way somehow,” Williams said postgame, as fans chanted her name in appreciation.
Dramatic Finish Seals Series Opener
The game’s closing moments provided plenty of drama. With 1:18 remaining, Williams stepped to the free throw line and calmly sank two shots to give Golden State the lead. Rhyne Howard then missed a three-point attempt with 1:09 left, but Angel Reese recorded a steal moments later for Atlanta.
Naz Hillmon followed with a missed three-pointer, and Kiah Stokes missed the first of two free throws with 23.8 seconds remaining. Allisha Gray then clanked a three-pointer off the rim with nine seconds left, setting up Williams’ decisive free throws with 4.1 seconds showing on the clock.
Game 2 of the best-of-seven series tips off Monday night at Chase Center, where the deafening “Ballhalla” crowd created the exact hostile atmosphere that Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase requested from home supporters.
Dream’s Resilient Performers Shine Despite Loss
For the Dream, Allisha Gray returned from injury to contribute 19 points in her comeback appearance. Gray had missed the final two games of Atlanta’s sweep over the New York Liberty in the semi-finals due to an injured left ring finger on her shooting hand, but she went through a light practice on Friday and was cleared to start.
Angel Reese added 14 points and 12 rebounds for Atlanta, while Jordin Canada chipped in eight points, seven assists, and five rebounds. Canada hit a crucial 13-foot jumper with 4:23 remaining to keep her team within striking distance.
Valkyries Weather Injury Scare in Closing Stages
The Valkyries faced their own injury concerns late in the game. Tiffany Hayes collided with the floor hard while attempting a steal with 2:38 remaining, eventually making her way to the locker room under her own power.
Meanwhile, Williams took a hard hit to her knee from Canada during a box-out attempt while shooting her late free throws. The star guard received attention from an athletic trainer on the bench during the waning moments but remained in the game to see the victory through.
Why it Matters
This inaugural WNBA Finals appearance for both franchises represents a significant milestone in women’s professional basketball. The Valkyries’ victory in Game 1, anchored by Williams’ 26-point performance and clutch free throws, demonstrates the competitive balance that has made this season compelling. With both teams seeking their first championship, the series promises high-stakes drama and showcases the growing popularity of women’s basketball on the national stage. The hostile environment created by Golden State’s home crowd also highlights how fan support can influence playoff outcomes, setting a precedent for future Finals matchups.
