Gabby Williams named MVP as the Golden State Valkyries win first WNBA championship

In a thrilling Game 7, the Golden State Valkyries claimed their first WNBA championship, defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63. Star player Gabby Williams led the way with an impressive performance, scoring 28 of her team's 30 points in the final 20 minutes. This marked the highest point total in a half for a WNBA Finals game and earned Williams the coveted MVP award.

Williams, a seasoned veteran with prior championships in college and international play, had previously fallen short in Olympic and FIBA World Cup competitions. Her first WNBA title came after spending time with the Chicago Sky and Seattle Storm prior to joining the Valkyries this season. Trailing by six points at the half, Williams ignited the Valkyries' comeback in the third quarter, delivering 15 points as they took a 45-44 lead into the final period.

In the closing moments, Williams delivered nine straight points, including a crucial three-pointer that pushed the score to 60-57 with just 2:18 remaining. The Valkyries held onto their lead, with Williams not only contributing offensively but also leading defensively with four blocks to start the playoffs.