Dream Force Game 7 in WNBA Finals After Beating Valkyries 80-69

WNBA fans will wait until Saturday to learn who holds the championship, as the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries remain tied 3-3 in the best-of-seven series. The title game will take place in Golden State, requiring the teams to travel from Atlanta to the West Coast for the final contest.

Atlanta secured the win on Thursday at State Farm Arena, defeating Golden State 80-69. Allisha Gray led the Dream with 23 points, while Rhyne Howard contributed 21. Gray made five of her seven three-point attempts, including a shot with 56 seconds remaining that extended Atlanta's lead after Golden State had narrowed the gap to eight points.

The Dream controlled the game from the opening tip, establishing a 32-15 lead in the first quarter. They entered halftime with a 46-26 advantage. Atlanta shot 13 of 30 from beyond the arc, with Gray and Howard combining for nine of those long-range baskets. Angel Reese added 15 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists for the Dream.

Golden State struggled offensively throughout the contest, shooting 22 of 70 from the field. The Valkyries went 7 of 27 from three-point range. Gabby Williams led Golden State with 26 points, and Tiffany Hayes added 15. Despite the offensive difficulties, Golden State managed to close the distance in the fourth quarter.

With 1:15 remaining, Williams completed a three-point play to cut the deficit to 77-69. Howard fouled out on the play. On the following Atlanta possession, Gray received a pass from Reese and hit a corner three-pointer to restore the lead to 11 points. No further baskets were scored before the final buzzer.

Coach Karl Smesko credited his players for executing the team's core strategies. He noted that Atlanta focused on moving the ball, getting up the court quickly, and being ready to shoot. Smesko described the team's performance as relentless and stated that the job is not finished until the next game is played.

Jordin Canada finished with 10 points for the Dream, while Naz Hillmon recorded seven points, five rebounds, and three assists. The teams now prepare for the final game of the series, which will determine the WNBA champion.