WNBA Finals: Atlanta Dream Force Historic Game 7
The Dream defeated the Golden State Valkyries 80-69 on Thursday to tie the series 3-3, setting up the first seventh game in league history.
By Julian Reed ·
The Atlanta Dream tied the 2026 WNBA Finals at three wins apiece after beating the Golden State Valkyries 80-69 on Thursday. The victory at State Farm Arena in Atlanta secured the first Game 7 in the history of the league's championship series.
The Valkyries entered the midday matchup with a 3-2 series lead, making the contest a win-or-go-home situation for both teams. The arena was sold out for the game, which started at 12:30 p.m.
Atlanta controlled the opening period, outscoring Golden State 32-15. The Dream connected on six three-pointers in the first quarter, establishing a lead that Golden State never closed.
Allisha Gray led the Dream with 23 points, while Rhyne Howard added 21. Angel Reese contributed 15 points and 14 rebounds for another double-double. Point guard Jordin Canada finished with 10 points, rounding out the four Dream players who scored in double figures.
The game featured a physical sequence in the third quarter when Golden State guard Veronica Burton received a Flagrant 1 foul. Burton's right hand contacted Howard's face during a layup attempt, sending Howard to the floor.
Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 26 points. Her team could not overcome the first-quarter deficit or the balanced scoring attack from Atlanta.
The series shifts to the West Coast for the decisive game. The Valkyries will host the Dream at 8 p.m. Saturday at Chase Center in San Francisco.
Source: Smyrna Patch
