WNBA Finals: Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries Set for Defensive Showdown

Golden State forward Kayla Thornton emphasized that scoring will be challenging due to the defenses of both teams. “We’re the top two in the league,” she said, “so I think it comes down to just the details and who wants it more.”

The Dream’s standout player, Angel Reese, is known for her aggressive playstyle, contributing to the team's strong defensive statistics. Atlanta has four of the top seven players in steals this postseason, with Jordan Canada and Rhyne Howard leading at 2.2 steals per game. Gabby Williams of the Valkyries averages 1.7 steals, while Reese has 1.6 steals per game. “They like to get in the passing lanes,” Williams noted, suggesting the game might hinge on whether good offense can lead to effective defense.

Atlanta is aiming for its first championship, having lost in the Finals three times between 2010 and 2013. After a rough start in the past three seasons, the Dream now ride a 10-game winning streak into the series after sweeping Washington and New York in the playoffs. “Nobody thought that we would make it to the Finals, and we’re doing that,” Howard said, reflecting the team's long-set goals.

Injury updates include Dream forward Allisha Gray, who participated in a light practice but will be a game-time decision for Game 1 due to a left ring finger injury. Gray scored an average of 19 points per game during the regular season and is the Dream’s top long-range shooter, making 3.1 three-pointers per game. “It’s definitely hard because you want to be out there,” she said regarding her injury’s impact.

The Valkyries, in only their second season, have made history by reaching the Finals faster than any other expansion team, surpassing Atlanta’s record from 2010. They achieved this milestone by defeating the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals. Other notable quick expansion successes include the NHL's Vegas Golden Knights and the Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.

Golden State has a unique opportunity to break records, as only the Milwaukee Bucks have won a championship as an expansion team in their third season.

Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase, who previously assisted on championship teams, expressed confidence in her team's abilities. “I feel like this is going to be a collective effort about us putting all of our high IQs together,” she said.

The Valkyries feature several players with championship experience, including Thornton, Kiah Stokes, and Cecilia Zandalasini, while the Dream also boast WNBA champions in DeWanna Bonner, Jordin Canada, and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough.

Many players on Golden State have been overlooked by prior teams, adding motivation to prove their worth on this new stage. “A lot of players have that mindset,” Stokes pointed out, reflecting on the team's approach under coach Nakase.