Nakase and Valkyries are determined to avoid another slow start in WNBA Finals Game 7 against Dream

The Atlanta Dream secured a crucial 80-69 victory over the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA Finals Game 6, keeping their championship hopes alive with the series tied at 3-3. Their early quarter dominance, featuring 32 points to Golden State's 15, established an early lead. The Dream's superior shooting and defensive efforts enabled them to take a 46-26 halftime lead, capitalizing on their improved play.

Allisha Gray led the scoring for the Atlanta Dream with 23 points, including five three-pointers, while Rhyne Howard added 21 points and four three-pointers. Angel Reese provided a crucial 15 points and 14 rebounds, contributing a double-double. With Golden State trailing by as many as 25 points, they mounted a late challenge in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to just eight points with under a minute left.

However, Atlanta's Gray responded with a decisive three-pointer to seal the 11-point victory. Gabby Williams dominated for the Valkyries with 26 points, while Tiffany Hayes contributed 15 points. This victory marked a significant turnaround for the Dream after their defeats in Games 4 and 5, which had given Golden State a 3-2 series edge.

The Dream's strong home support, evident in the 17,099 attendees at the sold-out State Farm Arena game, provided an inspiring atmosphere. Head coach Karl Smesko highlighted his team's rediscovered offensive rhythm, praising their improved spacing, ball movement, and execution. The WNBA Finals' first-ever seventh-game showdown will be held at the Valkyries' Chase Center on Sunday, November 1, at 12 a.m. Atlanta's challenge will be maintaining their shooting accuracy and defensive intensity from Game 6, while Golden State will look to recover and take advantage of home-court support. The winner will claim the 2026 WNBA championship.