The Golden State Valkyries captured the WNBA championship in just their second season by defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in a sensational Game 7 on Saturday night at Chase Center in San Francisco. Led by Gabby Williams, who scored 30 points, the Valkyries achieved the milestone in front of a violet-clad sellout crowd.
Gabby Williams Leads Valkyries to Historic Title
Gabby Williams delivered a stellar performance, scoring her team's final 11 points of the third quarter and dazzling through the fourth. Her 30-point night put her alongside Penny Taylor, who achieved the feat for Phoenix in 2007, as the only players in WNBA history to score 30 or more points in a winner-take-all Finals game.
Coach Natalie Nakase praised her star player after the victory, calling her the team's closer. Williams expressed deep appreciation for her new team environment, stating, "I just walked into a group full of love. And that just changed the entire trajectory of my career."
Game 7 Battle Against the Atlanta Dream
The championship matchup was a tense battle that saw the Atlanta Dream jump out to a 30-24 halftime lead. The Dream previously held a 16-0 record this season when Angel Reese made at least one three-pointer, and DeWanna Bonner made history during the game by becoming the first player in WNBA history to reach 600 career postseason defensive rebounds.
Despite Atlanta's strong effort—including 18 points from Jordin Canada, 16 from Allisha Gray, and eight points with 12 rebounds from Reese—Golden State mounted a comeback. Rhyne Howard tied the game at 57 with 2:41 left, but Williams answered immediately with a clutch 3-pointer. Veronica Burton sealed the win by converting two free throws with 5.1 seconds remaining.
Key Team Achievements and Milestones
- Kiah Stokes recorded 13 rebounds and two blocks, capping a postseason run that made her a four-time WNBA champion.
- Tiffany Hayes, a 37-year-old veteran who came out of retirement, scored 11 points after coach Nakase inserted her into the starting lineup.
- Owner Joe Lacob fulfilled a promise made three years ago when the franchise was granted, delivering a title in Year 2.
- Co-owner Peter Guber joked about needing a bigger trophy case following the victory.
Building a Championship Culture in San Francisco
The championship adds another title to the arena following the Golden State Warriors' 2022 victory. General manager Ohemma Nyanin, President Jess Smith, and Nakase celebrated together as confetti fell from the rafters. Lacob praised the resilience of the players and staff, acknowledging the sellout crowds that have supported the team since Day 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the WNBA championship?
The Golden State Valkyries won the WNBA championship by defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7.
How many seasons has the Golden State franchise existed?
The Valkyries captured their title in just their second season after becoming an expansion team.
How many points did Gabby Williams score in Game 7?
Gabby Williams scored 30 points, including her team's final 11 points of the third quarter.