For the first time in WNBA history, the Finals will be decided by a Game 7 after the Atlanta Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries 80-69 in Game 6 to level the series at 3-3. The decisive contest is scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m. ET in San Francisco.
Series Overview
The Dream exploded for 32 points in the first quarter of Game 6, led by Allisha Gray and Rhyne Howard who combined for 44 points. Angel Reese added 15 points and 14 rebounds. The Valkyries, who lost only five games during the regular season and once in the playoffs prior to Game 6, will host the winner-take-all game. Neither franchise has won a WNBA title; the Valkyries would become the quickest expansion team to capture a championship if they prevail.
Team Strengths
Golden State ranked as the league's best defensive team during the regular season, allowing just 75.1 points per game and leading in opponent field goal percentage, 3-point percentage, and assists allowed. Atlanta counters with the league's top turnover-forcing defense and ranks second in rebounds allowed per game, anchored by Defensive Player of the Year Reese. All of the Valkyries' wins in the series have been by single digits, while the Dream's victories have come by double-digit margins.
Key Players
Gabby Williams has emerged as Golden State's primary offensive threat, averaging 17.8 points per game in the Finals and scoring 26 in Game 6. Tiffany Hayes contributed 15 points, but Veronica Burton and Cecilia Zandalasini struggled shooting. For Atlanta, Gray and Howard have been consistent scorers, while Reese has averaged 16.4 points per game this season and recorded at least 12 rebounds in five of the six Finals games.
Game 7 Odds and Predictions
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Valkyries are favored by 1.5 points with a total of 143.5. The money line lists the Dream at -105 and the Valkyries at -115. Analysts note that Atlanta has already won on the road in this series and possesses the defensive versatility to compete in a low-scoring affair. Suggested bets include the Dream money line, Gabby Williams to score 20+ points, and Angel Reese to exceed 30 combined points, rebounds, and assists.
