Sports

Dream Edge Out Valkyries 80-69, Forcing Game 7 of WNBA Finals

By Reuters

The Atlanta Dream secured a 80‑69 win over the Golden State Valkyries, ensuring the WNBA Finals series will go the full seven games. The fourth‑seeded Dream, led by Allisha Gray’s 23 points and five three‑pointers, defeated the second‑seeded Valkyries in a Game 6 that was moved to a noon start to accommodate the Atlanta Hawks’ Thursday night home game. Atlanta’s Rhyne Howard added 21 points, while Angel Reese contributed 15 points, 14 rebounds and six assists. The Dream’s 13‑point burst early in the game, fueled by five points each from Gray and Jordin Canada, gave them a 19‑5 advantage. Atlanta shot 13 of 18 from beyond the arc in the first quarter and maintained a 32‑15 lead at halftime. The Valkyries narrowed the gap in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to 16, but the Dream’s defense and offensive firepower held. In the fourth quarter, the Dream extended the lead with key three‑pointers from Gray and Reese, ultimately winning 80‑69. Head coach Karl Smesko said the team is ready for the decisive Game 7 in San Francisco and plans to make any necessary adjustments. Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase noted the team’s need to review film and find solutions after the loss. The victory marks the biggest win in Dream franchise history to date. The series will now continue with a Game 7 at the Chase Center on Saturday night.