Saturday, October 17, 2026 | Championship Series
Game story: Williams takes control
Atlanta came out with energy and physicality, using Angel Reese’s inside presence to establish an early advantage.
The Dream closed the first quarter on an 11–0 run and carried a 22–14 lead into the second period.
Golden State responded with a decisive surge. Williams erupted for 16 points in the second quarter, attacking the basket and knocking down perimeter shots as the Valkyries fought their way back into the contest.
Her scoring burst changed the momentum and gave the home crowd plenty to celebrate.
The second half became a defensive grind.
Both teams struggled to find consistent offensive rhythm, and every possession grew more important as the championship opener moved toward its conclusion
Golden State shot just 32.1% from the field and made seven of 33 three-point attempts.
Despite those difficulties, the Valkyries found enough defensive stops to remain within striking distance and set up a dramatic finish.
Fourth-quarter finish
With the game hanging in the balance, Williams stepped forward as Golden State’s closer.
1:18 remaining: Williams converted two free throws to put the Valkyries ahead.
1:09 remaining: Rhyne Howard missed a three-point attempt that could have helped Atlanta regain control.
Final seconds: Atlanta continued searching for a tying or go-ahead basket, but Allisha Gray missed a three-pointer with nine seconds left.
4.1 seconds remaining: Williams sank two more free throws to seal the 68–64 victory.
Key player performances
Gabby Williams — Golden State Valkyries
26 points
Williams was the game’s leading scorer and the clear difference-maker.
Her second-quarter explosion and clutch free throws carried Golden State through its shooting struggles.
Allisha Gray — Atlanta Dream
19 points
Gray supplied Atlanta’s leading scoring punch, but her missed late three-pointer proved costly as the Dream attempted to rally.
Angel Reese — Atlanta Dream
14 points, 12 rebounds
Reese recorded a double-double and helped Atlanta establish its early advantage.
Her rebounding and physical interior play kept the Dream competitive throughout the contest.
Three turning points
Atlanta’s strong opening: The Dream’s 11–0 run to finish the first quarter gave them early control.
Williams’ second-quarter takeover: Her 16-point period brought Golden State back into contention and shifted the game’s momentum.
The final-minute execution: Williams converted four decisive free throws across the closing stretch while Atlanta failed to capitalize on its final scoring opportunities.
What the result means
The victory gives Golden State a 1–0 lead in the best-of-seven Finals and puts the expansion-era franchise one step closer to its first WNBA championship.
The Valkyries demonstrated that they can win a high-pressure game even when their outside shooting is unreliable.
Atlanta, meanwhile, showed it can challenge Golden State defensively and compete physically.
The Dream will need more consistent fourth-quarter scoring and better execution in late-game situations to even the series.
WNBA Finals — Game 2
Monday, October 19
Chase Center · San Francisco
Golden State looks to take a commanding 2–0 series lead, while Atlanta aims to respond before the Finals shift to Georgia.
Final verdict: Gabby Williams delivered a Finals-calibre performance when it mattered most.
Golden State’s offence was far from efficient, but its defensive resolve and late-game composure secured a valuable opening victory.
Atlanta remains in the series, but the Dream must turn their defensive pressure into more reliable scoring in Game 2.
