Gabby Williams’ Late Free Throws Lift Valkyries Past Dream in WNBA Finals Opener
Gabby Williams scored 26 points and made four crucial free throws late as the Golden State Valkyries beat the Atlanta Dream 68-64 in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. Allisha Gray returned from a hand injury to score 19 points, but Atlanta struggled to convert late chances and now trails 1-0 in the best-of-seven series.
Williams delivers as Golden State takes Finals opener
Gabby Williams scored 26 points, including four decisive free throws in the final 1:18, as the Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 68-64 in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday.
The Valkyries overcame a low-scoring contest behind Williams’ late-game execution and a defense that held Atlanta to 32.8% shooting from the field and 4-for-25 from 3-point range. Golden State’s Kiah Stokes added nine points, seven rebounds and four blocks.
Atlanta received a major boost from Allisha Gray, who returned after missing the final two games of the Dream’s semifinal series because of a left ring-finger injury. Gray scored 19 points, but the Dream could not convert several late opportunities to reclaim the lead.
“Williams gave Golden State the lead for good on two free throws with 1:18 remaining.”
Gray missed twice with chances to extend Atlanta’s lead before missing a 3-pointer with 8.7 seconds remaining and the Dream down two, according to the game report.
Valkyries move one win closer
The victory gives Golden State a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series and marks the franchise’s first championship-series win. The Valkyries will host Game 2 on Monday, with Atlanta seeking to even the series before it shifts away from San Francisco.
The opener matched two of the WNBA’s strongest defensive teams, and the 132 combined points reflected a physical game decided in the final possessions. Golden State now needs three more wins to claim the championship, while Atlanta must find more efficient offense after struggling from long range.
The AFP report also identified Williams as the game’s leading scorer and highlighted her four late free throws in Golden State’s narrow victory.