Golden State Valkyries take Game 1 of WNBA Finals over Atlanta Dream in heavily anticipated defensive battle
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 68-64 in Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals at a sold-out Chase Center, overcoming early shooting struggles and an early deficit.
- Valkyries star Gabby Williams led all scorers with 26 points and hit crucial free throws in the final seconds to secure the win, while no other Golden State player scored in double digits.
- Atlanta's Allisha Gray led her team with 19 points but was held scoreless in the fourth quarter, and key players Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard struggled offensively in the second half.
- Both teams played strong defense, shooting only 32% from the field, with Golden State forcing 12 turnovers and scoring 17 points off them, including four first-half blocks by center Kiah Stokes.
- The Finals continue with Game 2 on Monday at 8pm ET, broadcast on USA Network and Peacock.
