Atlanta’s Long Range Fireworks Force Decisive Game Seven

The Atlanta Dream found their rhythm at the perfect moment on Thursday, unleashing a barrage of three pointers to defeat the Golden State Valkyries 80-69. After suffering two consecutive low scoring losses that put them on the brink of elimination, Atlanta rediscovered its offensive identity to tie the WNBA Finals series at three games apiece. Allisha Gray led the charge with 23 points and Rhyne Howard added 21, both finding plenty of space behind the arc to keep Atlanta’s hopes of a maiden championship alive.

From the opening tip, it was clear that the Dream were playing with desperation. They exploded for a quick start, matching their entire previous game five first half total in just over six minutes of play. By the end of the first quarter, Atlanta held a commanding 32-15 lead, leaving Golden State stunned and searching for answers. Angel Reese anchored the effort with a double double consisting of 15 points and 13 rebounds, noting after the game that while things had been frustrating lately, the sun finally peeked through for the team.

Golden State spent much of the afternoon fighting an uphill battle against a suffocating Atlanta defense that limited them to just nine made shots in the first half. Despite Gabby Williams pouring in 26 points to lead her side, the Valkyries struggled to find consistent footing until late in the fourth quarter. A spirited rally brought Golden State within eleven points in the closing minutes, but Allisha Gray silenced any hope of a comeback by sinking a clutch three pointer that effectively sealed the victory for visitors from Georgia.

The stage is now set for a winner take all finale on Saturday night in Golden State. Both franchises are chasing their first ever WNBA title, making Game 7 one of the most anticipated matchups in league history. While coach Natalie Nakase expressed disappointment in her team’s slow start and lack of early physicality, the Valkyries return home with the advantage of playing in front of their own crowd for what promises to be an electric conclusion to the season.