WNBA Finals Game 6 Moved to Afternoon Slot, Sparking Fan and Player Reactions
The WNBA Finals have shifted Game 6 to an early afternoon start to accommodate an NBA game, prompting players and fans to discuss the scheduling impact.
Game 6 of the WNBA Finals between the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries has been rescheduled to a 12:30 p.m. ET tipoff on Thursday. This adjustment is necessary to allow State Farm Arena to prepare for an NBA game later that evening. The shift presents a challenge for fans, particularly on the West Coast, where the potential championship-clinching game will begin at 9:30 a.m. PT.
The Golden State Valkyries currently hold a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series after their victory in Game 5. This early tipoff for a potential title decider deviates from the typical prime-time scheduling for such significant contests.
Despite the unconventional timing, support for the Valkyries remains strong. The team has sold out every home game since its inception last year, and interest in the league has seen record ratings. Fans like Shaunice Christmas-Miller and her wife, Kendall, who have attended multiple playoff games, expressed confidence in the fanbase's ability to still show up, though they noted the desire for better advance planning to secure primetime slots for championship games.
Some public figures have reacted to the scheduling. Rapper Flavor Flav humorously declared Thursday a "paid holiday" and issued a mock permission slip for employees to take the day off. Ole Miss women's coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin voiced her dissatisfaction on social media, calling the early tipoff "not a good look" for both fans and players.
Valkyries players have also weighed in with a touch of humor. Point guard Veronica Burton suggested fans "call in sick," while teammate Kiah Stokes jokingly asked if attendees knew how to "fake a cough." Golden State coach Natalie Nakase and her players have largely focused on controllable aspects of the game, accepting the schedule as it is.
Guard Kaila Charles acknowledged the adjustment but also saw a positive aspect, stating that playing in a larger arena allows for greater support for women's basketball. Fans are invited to gather outside Chase Center's Thrive City viewing area to watch the game on a big screen.