Atlanta Dream denied the Golden State Valkyries their first WNBA title with an 80-69 win on Sunday, forcing the series into a seventh and deciding game. Atlanta had previously won none of its 10 Finals games, having lost series 3-0 in 2010, 2011 and 2013.
The Valkyries led the series 3-2 heading into the game in Atlanta, but they started slowly and trailed 32-15 at the end of the first quarter. That deficit proved pivotal. The hosts kept a healthy buffer throughout and led 46-26 at half-time.
Golden State’s Gabby Williams was the game’s top scorer with 26 points, despite not being at her best. Angel Reese led the rebounding with 14.
Reese shines again
Reese, in her first season with the Dream after being traded from the Chicago Sky, was kept quiet by Kiah Stokes in Game Five but could not repeat that display. The 24-year-old delivered another standout performance after her Game Two display made her the youngest player, and only the third overall, to record at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in a Finals series.
Golden State coach Karl Smesko saw his side produce a superb performance. They had no room for error, and they kept what has been a thrilling series alive.
The first Game 7 in WNBA Finals history will be played in Golden State at 01:00 GMT on Sunday.
Reese reflects on the win
“Every time we threw the first punch we won the game. We set the tone early,” Reese said after the game.
“We needed an opportunity and that’s all we needed. We maximised it today. Just really proud of this group. The job is not done. I’m looking forward to it. One more [game to go].”
Venue dispute
Game Six was originally scheduled for 20:00 local time at Gateway Center Arena, which has a capacity of 3,500. It was moved to State Farm Arena and brought forward to 12:30 local time amid concerns over a scheduling clash with the Atlanta Hawks.
“Our concerns did not receive the attention nor the urgency that they deserved. We earned our place in the Finals, and our city deserves the opportunity to show up for its team,” the Dream said in an open letter.
State Farm Arena, which has a capacity of 16,888, was sold out for the game.
“We didn’t have everyone come out at 12:30 for nothing. We appreciate the fans’ support, on a week day, they came out and supported us,” Reese added.