Valkyries look lost as Dream run away to gain 2-1 WNBA Finals lead in Atlanta

Despite head coach Natalie Nakase's calls for a resurgence, the Golden State Valkyries were disorganized in their 97-71 defeat to the Atlanta Dream on Wednesday night. This loss extended the Dream's lead to 2-1 in the best-of-seven WNBA Finals, with Game 4 set for Saturday at State Farm Arena. The Valkyries struggled to gain any momentum, matching Atlanta's score only twice in the third quarter.

The Dream showcased the type of offense that secured their Game 2 victory, scoring 22 points off 17 turnovers. Center Angel Reese was a standout performer, scoring a double-double in her third consecutive game and contributing 21 points on 7-of-12 shooting from the field, including two three-pointers and 12 rebounds. Sixth Player of the Year Janelle Salmon provided a significant boost offensively, going 3-for-4 from beyond the arc and scoring 11 points in the first half, keeping the Valkyries within six points heading into halftime.

Although Cecilia Zandalasini's shooting improved, the Valkyries' overall performance remained insufficient. The Dream effectively limited Williams' offensive opportunities, forcing her into uncomfortable shots. With a shooting accuracy of 5-of-18, Williams had a team-high 14 points in the game. The Dream's success in blocking the paint and preventing Valkyries scorers from driving to the basket proved detrimental for the Valkyries, who had to settle for difficult midrange shots that they couldn't consistently make.