Golden State Valkyries Take Control With Defensive Masterclass Against Atlanta Dream
October 26 – Chase Center,
San Francisco
The Golden State Valkyries moved within one victory of their first WNBA championship, defeating the Atlanta Dream 64–55 in Game 5 of the 2026 WNBA Finals on Monday night at Chase Center.
Golden State seized a 3–2 lead in the best-of-seven series behind a dominant defensive performance led by Kiah Stokes.
In a low-scoring, physical contest, the Valkyries found a way to contain Atlanta’s interior attack and put the pressure squarely on the Dream heading into Game 6.
With the championship now within reach, Golden State has an opportunity to close out the series on the road in Atlanta.
Game Summary
The Valkyries relied on disciplined half-court defense, physical rebounding and timely perimeter shooting to separate themselves from Atlanta.
Kiah Stokes delivered an outstanding two-way performance, contributing offensively while disrupting the Dream around the basket.
Atlanta struggled to generate consistent scoring, particularly through Angel Reese, whose impact had been central to the Dream’s victories earlier in the series.
Golden State’s defensive pressure again made life difficult for the Atlanta offense.
Player Performances
Kiah Stokes — Golden State Valkyries
13 points
8 rebounds · 3 three-pointers · 3 blocks
Stokes was the standout performer, combining interior defense with an unexpected scoring contribution from beyond the arc.
Her rim protection continued to be a defining feature of the series.
Veronica Burton — Golden State Valkyries
13 points
8 rebounds
Burton matched Stokes for the team scoring lead and supplied valuable contributions on the glass as Golden State secured the series advantage.
Angel Reese — Atlanta Dream
7 points
15 rebounds · 2-for-8 shooting
Reese controlled the boards but could not find her usual scoring rhythm.
Stokes and the Valkyries defense limited her finishing opportunities near the basket.
Three Major Takeaways
1. Defense is driving the series. Golden State held Atlanta to 55 points, putting the Dream’s offensive execution under renewed pressure.
2. Stokes is changing the matchup. Her shot-blocking, rebounding and three-point shooting gave the Valkyries a valuable advantage at both ends of the floor.
3. The championship is within reach. With the series at 3–2, Golden State needs one more victory to secure the franchise’s first WNBA title, while Atlanta must win Game 6 to force a decisive seventh game.
What’s Next
WNBA Finals Game 6
Atlanta Dream vs.
Golden State Valkyries
Thursday, October 29
State Farm Arena · Atlanta, Georgia
12:30 PM
Atlanta faces an elimination game on home court.
Golden State can capture the championship with another defensive performance, while the Dream need a victory to extend the series to Game 7.
Final verdict: Golden State delivered a championship-calibre defensive performance when it mattered most. Stokes anchored the effort, Burton provided important scoring support, and Atlanta’s offensive struggles proved costly.
The Valkyries are now one win away from the WNBA championship.
