Gabby Williams delivered a historic performance in the first Game 7 in WNBA history, scoring 30 points with 28 coming in the second half to lead the Golden State Valkyries to a 68-63 victory and their first championship in franchise history. The Valkyries became the fastest expansion franchise to win a championship in North American sports history, achieving the feat in just two years.
Williams added three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and four blocks, earning Finals MVP honors. Her 28 points after halftime set a WNBA playoff record for a single half, and her 30 points tied the record for a winner-take-all Finals game. Teammate Kiah Stokes praised Williams, calling her the team's leader and offense all season.
Owner Joe Lacob had predicted a championship within five years when the franchise was announced in 2023. He played a key role in recruiting Williams, who signed as an unrestricted free agent after being cored by the Seattle Storm in 2025. Lacob described an hour-long conversation with Williams in Turkey that convinced him she was the right fit.
Williams, a former No. 4 overall pick by the Chicago Sky in 2018, overcame a non-linear career that included a suspension and trade related to her French national team commitments. She evolved into an All-Star with the Storm in 2025 before joining the Valkyries, where she led the team in scoring (14.4 points per game), made the All-Defensive First Team, and finished as Defensive Player of the Year runner-up.
In the decisive Game 7, Williams took over in the third quarter with the Valkyries trailing by six. She hit consecutive three-pointers over DeWanna Bonner and Angel Reese, then scored nine straight points late in the fourth quarter, including a 31-foot go-ahead three with just over two minutes remaining. Williams credited coach Nat for telling her to stay patient, a trust that paid off.
The victory sparked celebrations at Chase Center and a parade scheduled for Wednesday down the Embarcadero. Williams reflected on her journey, saying the love and support from her new teammates changed the trajectory of her career.
