Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 7:08
The Golden State Valkyries seized early momentum in the WNBA Finals by defeating the Atlanta Dream, 68-64, in Game 1 at Chase Center. A historic second-quarter surge from Gabby Williams anchored a gritty defensive performance that secured home-court advantage for the best-of-seven series.
Atlanta controlled much of the opening half, building leads as large as nine points. Golden State trailed continuously until Williams ignited a 16-point second quarter. Her scoring streak propelled the Valkyries to a 42-39 halftime edge. She finished the game with 26 points, including all six free throws she attempted in the final minutes. Her late basket and subsequent foul calls sealed the win with just four seconds remaining.
We always knew we were going to find a way somehow, Williams said postgame as fans chanted her name.
The contest lived up to expectations as a defensive slugfest. Golden State shot just 32.1 percent from the field and 7 of 33 from three-point range. Kiah Stokes anchored the paint with seven rebounds and four blocks. Reserve center Laeticia Amihere provided a spark, contributing five points and five rebounds in limited minutes. On the opposing side, Allisha Gray returned from a hand injury to score 19 points for Atlanta. Angel Reese added 14 points and 12 rebounds while battling tough interior defense.
Game broadcasts shifted networks under new media rights agreements. NBC aired Game 1, with USA Network covering weeknight matchups. All games stream on Peacock. Demand drove ticket prices sharply upward for the opener. Secondary market listings showed entry prices ranging from $200 to over $250, reflecting strong local enthusiasm for the expanded franchise.
San Francisco fans transformed Chase Center into Ballhalla, generating intense noise designed to disrupt visiting offenses. Coach Natalie Nakase explicitly requested this atmosphere before tipoff. The arena successfully hosted the opener despite tight scheduling conflicts. Organizers even rescheduled a major Doja Cat concert to accommodate the playoff calendar, proving the venue can pivot rapidly between entertainment and sports.
Founded last year, the Valkyries made history by reaching the playoffs in their inaugural season. General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin navigated early roster uncertainties, including a controversial draft-day trade and multiple midseason cuts. Strategic free-agent acquisitions like Williams and Stokes stabilized the core. Atlanta joins the championship round for the first time since 2013, adding veteran playoff experience to the matchup.
Golden State holds a 1-0 series lead heading back to Chase Center for Game 2 on Monday night. Both franchises seek their first-ever titles, promising another tactical defensive duel. Fans can follow the action across NBC, USA Network, and Peacock as the championship narrative unfolds.
