Golden State Valkyries Defeat Atlanta Dream 67-62 to Tie WNBA Finals at 2-2

Valkyries Even the Series in Atlanta

The Golden State Valkyries leveled the WNBA Finals at 2-2 with a 67-62 win over the Atlanta Dream on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. In a defensive battle, Gabby Williams led the Valkyries with 17 points, helping her team recover from a previous loss in the series.

Gabby Williams Sets the Tone

After Golden State fell behind in the series, Gabby Williams delivered a passionate speech to her teammates. She expressed dissatisfaction with her previous game and emphasized the need to lead by example. Williams responded with a standout performance, setting an aggressive pace and scoring a team-high 17 points.

"I didn’t like my last game. I didn’t like who I was in that last game," Williams said after the win. "If I want to lead my team, I have to be the one that sets the tone."

Kiah Stokes Anchors Defense and Makes History

Kiah Stokes showcased her championship experience, pulling down 16 rebounds—eight of them offensive—and blocking three shots. Her total of 14 blocks in the finals set a new WNBA Finals record, surpassing the previous mark of 12 held by Brittney Griner and Sylvia Fowles. Stokes, a three-time WNBA champion with Las Vegas, stressed the importance of focusing on one game at a time following a heavy loss in Game 3.

"The goal when we play on the road is to just steal one," Stokes remarked. "Now it’s the best-of-three series."

Tiffany Hayes and Valkyries Adjust Lineup

Tiffany Hayes joined the starting lineup and delivered all 13 of her points in the second half, giving Golden State a crucial boost. Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase reworked the starting five, inserting Hayes and Kaila Charles for Kayla Thornton and Cecilia Zandalasini. When Thornton and Zandalasini entered from the bench, they sparked a key first-quarter run that gave Golden State its first lead since Game 2.

Dream Struggle Despite Rhyne Howard’s Efforts

The Atlanta Dream struggled on offense, shooting just 33.3% overall and 4-of-23 from three-point range. Angel Reese, who had averaged 25.5 points and 14 rebounds in Atlanta’s previous wins, was held to just eight points and nine rebounds, missing 10 of her 12 shots.

"I think I rushed a lot on my shots and I didn’t take my time," Reese said. "It happens and I’m just looking forward to the next game." Rhyne Howard led the Dream with 19 points and made a late push, including a three-point play to cut the lead, but Golden State held firm in the final moments.

Looking Ahead to Game 5

After establishing a 16-point lead in the first half and holding off a late Dream rally in front of a sellout Atlanta crowd of over 17,000, the Valkyries now turn their focus to Game 5. The best-of-seven series heads to Golden State, with the next matchup set for Monday. Both teams remain in contention for the WNBA championship as the series continues.

Source: kron4.com.