The No. 4 seed Atlanta Dream are in uncharted position going into Game 2 of the WNBA Finals on Monday, Oct. 19, after losing Game 1 to the No. 2 seed Golden State Valkyries.
In the best-of-seven series, the Valkyries overcame a nine-point deficit to win 68-64 and establish a 1-0 lead. The Dream’s 10-game winning streak from the regular season was ended by the Valkyries’ triumph. It was Atlanta’s first postseason loss and their first setback since August 28.
then one poor offensive quarter in the fourth quarter,” stated Karl Smesko, the head coach of Dream.
Quick Fact
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Gabby Williams |
| Team | Golden State Valkyries |
| Total Points | 26 points |
| Second Quarter | 16 points |
| Kiah Stokes | 8 points, 4 blocks |
| Kaila Charles | 7 points, 10 rebounds |
| Competition | WNBA Finals |
| Next Game Venue | Chase Center |
Dream Struggle in Game One
The Dream shot 33% from the field and 16% from 3-point range while giving up 17 points off 12 turnovers in the Game 1 video. After missing her two playoff games due to a “minor procedure” and a left hand injury, Allisha Gray returned to the starting lineup and finished with a team-high 19 points and six rebounds.
After scoring 14 points in the first half, Angel Reese was scoreless in the second.
Reese stated, “I wasn’t aggressive enough with the ball and trying to… get to my spot,” citing self-inflicted injuries as the game-changing factor.
Gabby Williams Shines Despite Valkyries’ Struggles
With 26 points, Gabby Williams led the Valkyries, with 16 of those points coming in the second quarter. Eight players scored for Golden State, including Kiah Stokes (eight points, four blocks) and Kaila Charles (seven points, ten rebounds). Williams was the only player to score in double figures.
On Monday, October 18, at 8 p.m. USA, CNBC, and Peacock, the Chase Center will host Game 2 of the WNBA Finals. Live updates and highlights are provided by USA TODAY Sports, which is there on the scene. Here’s what you should know:
