The Golden State Valkyries moved within one win of their inaugural WNBA championship after securing a 64-55 victory over the Atlanta Dream in Game 5 on Monday. The result gives Golden State a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series, which now shifts to Atlanta for the next matchup this Thursday.
Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton were instrumental in the win, each contributing 13 points and eight rebounds. The team also received significant offensive support from Tiffany Hayes and reserve Cecilia Zandalasini, who both added 12 points. Reflecting on the team’s position, Stokes noted the work is not finished: “We’re not done yet. We’ve got one more. We need two hoops, 94 feet and each other and that’s all we need.”
Golden State’s victory was built on a stifling defensive performance, holding Atlanta to a season-low 29 percent shooting from the field, hitting just 19 of 65 attempts. Stokes anchored this defensive effort, recording four blocked shots, a feat she has achieved in every game of the finals so far. “That has just been our staple all season. We really rely on our defence,” she stated, emphasizing the collective effort required to contain their opponents. We have to make sure we’re all doing our part.
Despite the defensive pressure, Rhyne Howard led the scoring for Atlanta with 20 points, while Jordin Canada chipped in with 12. Dream star Angel Reese was largely contained, limited to only seven points on 2-of-8 shooting, although she managed to secure a game-high 15 rebounds.
Currently playing in only their second WNBA season, the Valkyries have found significant fan support in the Golden State Warriors’ home arena. Following the final buzzer, Stokes addressed the crowd, shouting, “You all are amazing. We couldn’t do this without you all.” The series now moves to Atlanta with the championship title potentially on the line for the Valkyries in the upcoming Game 6.
