Golden State Valkyries secure WNBA title in second year with 68-63 win

The Golden State Valkyries claimed their first WNBA championship on Saturday night by defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in Game 7 of the Finals. This victory marks the franchise's first title in its second season of existence. The win concluded a series that featured the team that led at halftime winning every game, a trend that persisted through six prior matchups in the series.

The franchise's trajectory has been rapid since the Bay Area was granted an expansion team three years ago. Owner Joe Lacob stated at that time that the organization would guarantee a championship within the first five years. The team achieved this milestone in Year 2, following their status as the first expansion organization to reach the playoffs in their inaugural 2025 season.

Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase altered her starting lineup after Golden State fell behind 2-1 in the series. She inserted Kaila Charles and Tiffany Hayes while moving Kayla Thornton and Cecilia Zandalasini to the bench. Hayes, a 37-year-old guard who came out of retirement two years ago after spending 10 seasons with the Dream, scored 11 points in the final game. Nakase cited Hayes' energy as a reason for wanting to win for the veteran.

The Dream held a 30-24 lead at halftime, extending their lead in the first half for the seventh consecutive game. Atlanta's DeWanna Bonner reached a career milestone during the series, becoming the first player in WNBA history to record 600 postseason defensive rebounds. The Dream also maintained a 16-0 record this season whenever Angel Reese made at least one three-point shot. Reese finished the game with eight points and 12 rebounds, ending the franchise's fourth championship attempt.

Gabby Williams provided the decisive offensive push for Golden State. She scored the team's final 11 points in the third quarter and finished with 30 points. With 2:41 remaining in the fourth quarter, Rhyne Howard's layup tied the score at 57. Williams immediately answered with a three-pointer. She later converted two free throws with 1:40 left. Kiah Stokes scored a late basket and pulled down 13 rebounds while blocking two shots.

The closing seconds were defined by free throws and a jump ball. Allisha Gray made two free throws with 11 seconds remaining. Atlanta forced a jump ball between Gray and Williams, which Veronica Burton secured. Burton then converted two free throws with 5.1 seconds left to seal the victory. Burton, who was cut by Dallas two years ago, described the moment as insane and a blessing.

The atmosphere at Chase Center shifted as the game progressed. Fans chanted Williams' name throughout the fourth quarter. The arena, typically known for the Warriors' slogan, saw the crowd adapt the chant to "Boohalla" on the Halloween night. When the final buzzer sounded, the violet-clad sellout crowd erupted as players hugged and confetti fell from the rafters.

Williams, who left Seattle with a positive outlook on joining the Valkyries' close-knit culture, reflected on the team's identity. She noted that critics said the team lacked stars or talent the previous year. She countered that the group consisted of good people and winners willing to work hard to win games. The team's success returned the Bay Area to the championship stage, joining the Golden State Warriors who won the NBA title in 2022.

Co-owner Peter Guber stated the organization must build a larger trophy case. During the victory ceremony, Lacob praised the team and its leaders while thanking the fans who have sold out Chase Center for every game since the franchise began. Nakase, general manager Ohemma Nyanin, and President Jess Smith embraced on the court. Lacob ended the ceremony by shouting the team's slogan, "Ballhalla!"