Valkyries defeat Dream 68-64 in WNBA Finals Game 1

The Golden State Valkyries defeated the Atlanta Dream 68-64 in Game 1 of the 2026 WNBA Finals, securing a lead in the series. The Valkyries held the Dream scoreless over the final 3:12 of the game and limited Angel Reese to three points after the first quarter. Gabby Williams converted two free throws with 1:18 remaining to put Golden State ahead, followed by two more with 4.1 seconds to go. The victory was characterized by a defensive performance that outlasted the Dream, who had enjoyed a lead for much of the third quarter before a Valkyries run took over. Former NBA center Enes Kanter Freedom announced plans to attend Game 3 of the finals, where he also directed comments at Gabby Williams and Angel Reese. The Game 1 matchup was overshadowed by a decision by both teams to leave the court during the U.S. national anthem. Atlanta Dream fans expressed frustration after their team surrendered a late lead, describing the game as winnable. The Valkyries are now positioned to seek a 2-0 lead in Game 2, with predictions focusing on Angel Reese's potential bounce back after her limited scoring output in the opener.