Angel Reese Downplays Valkyries' Defense in WNBA Finals Game 1

Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese said she did not believe the Golden State Valkyries' defense limited her shot attempts in the second half of Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. Instead, Reese attributed her reduced offensive output to her own play.

"I don't think they really did anything," Reese stated when asked about the Valkyries' defense. "I wasn't aggressive enough with the ball. I'm definitely going to do a better job of that next game."

Despite Reese's assessment, she finished Game 1 with 14 points, 12 rebounds, two steals, and a block in 35 minutes. However, she struggled offensively in the second half, going 0-for-3 from the field with three turnovers and accumulating five fouls. The Dream scored only eight points in the fourth quarter, contributing to the Valkyries' comeback victory.

The Golden State Valkyries, in their second season of existence, have built their team around a defense-first mentality, which has been instrumental in their journey to the WNBA Finals.

Reese, who was ranked as the top player in the Finals by ESPN, will have another opportunity to make a significant impact in Game 2 against the Valkyries on Monday.