Valkyries Take 1-0 Finals Lead Over Dream
Golden State seeks to extend its home undefeated playoff streak in Game 2 while Atlanta aims to even the series.
The Golden State Valkyries secured a 1-0 lead in the WNBA Finals with a Game 1 victory over the Atlanta Dream on Saturday. The Valkyries extended their undefeated playoff streak at home, with Gabby Williams leading the charge with 26 points. Despite the win, the game was a defensive struggle, marked by low scoring from both teams in the crucial fourth quarter. The Dream managed only nine points in the final period, while Golden State scored 17, ultimately clinching the win.
Despite the defensive intensity, the offensive performance was uncharacteristic for both teams. The Dream shot a poor 33 percent from the field and a mere 4-of-16 from beyond the arc, marking their first postseason loss. Allisha Gray paced the Dream with 19 points, though it required 19 shot attempts. Angel Reese contributed a double-double with 14 points and 12 rebounds. Golden State's defensive presence at the rim proved challenging for Atlanta's forwards, Rhyne Howard and Jordin Canada, with the Valkyries blocking 10 shots.
For the Valkyries, the offense also struggled, shooting a season-low 32 percent from the floor. Williams was the only player to reach double figures. Golden State fell behind early, trailing 22-14 after the first quarter, but rallied in the second quarter to outscore the Dream 28-17. Concerns for Golden State include starter Kayla Thornton's limited playtime and Tiffany Hayes' offensive struggles and a late-game head injury.
Looking ahead to Game 2, analysts anticipate a more offensive-minded contest as both teams shake off the opening-game jitters and extended rest period. The total points line has seen a slight adjustment, dropping from an opening of 154.5 to 151.5. The prediction favors the over on total points, suggesting a return to more fluid offensive play. Golden State is currently a 2.5-point favorite for Game 2, aiming to build a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The Dream's road struggles against Golden State this season, including a 0-4 record in the Bay Area, add to the challenge they face in Game 2.