The Golden State Valkyries opened the 2026 WNBA Finals with a hard-fought 68–64 victory over the Atlanta Dream, relying on Gabby Williams’ late-game composure to secure the first win of the championship series.
Williams finished with a game-high 26 points as Golden State rallied from an early deficit at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday. The forward converted crucial free throws in the closing moments to help the Valkyries protect their narrow advantage. Game details
Atlanta made a strong start, with Angel Reese providing an early scoring threat. The Dream carried their momentum through much of the contest, but their offense faltered in the fourth quarter.
The visitors managed only eight points in the final period, struggling to find the basket when the game was on the line. Allisha Gray led Atlanta with 19 points, while Reese recorded 14 points and 12 rebounds. Rhyne Howard added 12 points.
Golden State, meanwhile, found a decisive contributor in Williams. After a quiet opening quarter, she scored 16 points in the second period and continued to influence the contest as the pressure mounted.
The Valkyries finished strongly, closing the game on a 7–0 run to take the opener and move ahead 1–0 in the best-of-seven series. The result also extended their unbeaten home run in the playoffs.
Both franchises are pursuing their first WNBA championship. Golden State has reached the Finals in only its second season, while Atlanta is making another attempt at a title after previous Finals appearances.
The Valkyries will host Game 2 on Monday, looking to strengthen their advantage before the series moves to Atlanta.
