Valkyries reach WNBA Finals in remarkable second season

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 17 Oct, 19:50 · Archive

Golden State Valkyries reach the WNBA Finals in only their second year of existence to face Atlanta Dream on Saturday.

The Golden State Valkyries will begin their WNBA Finals campaign against Atlanta Dream on Saturday in San Francisco. This is the second year of existence for the Valkyries, who have set expansion franchise records by qualifying for the playoffs in their inaugural 2025 season and reaching the Finals in only their second year. Both franchises are seeking their first WNBA title.

Forward Gabby Williams has been central to the Valkyries' success. The 30-year-old, who signed with the team as a free agent in April, averaged a team-high 14.4 points per game in the regular season and improved to 22.7 points per game across eight playoff contests, including a three-game sweep of the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals. The Valkyries posted a 32-12 regular-season record.

Valkyries owner Joe Lacob promised a championship within the first five years of the franchise's existence. He praised the team's supporters, saying the atmosphere at their home at Chase Center demonstrates 'tremendous feeling of camaraderie and togetherness.' Williams acknowledged media support for her recent performances, though she expressed that past lack of respect from the media throughout her career has not affected her focus.

How it is being reported

• Valkyries’ Gabby Williams lashes out at WNBA media treatment of her after team’s successGabby Williams led the Golden State Valkyries to the WNBA Finals, averaging 22.7 points in the playoffs while dismissing recent media praise.New York Post · 17 Oct, 19:33
• Atlanta Dream v Golden State Valkyries: WNBA finals 2026 Game 1 – live buildupValkyries host Dream in opener of best-of-seven series Game 1 tipoff scheduled for 3.30pm ET (8.30pm BST) Guardian writers’ predictions: Golden State or Atlanta? Reach out to Bryan on Bluesky or by email Bryan will be here shortly. In the meantime here’s a look at our writers’ predictions for the series ahead. Continue reading...Guardian Sport · 17 Oct, 19:30
• Valkyries begin quest for WNBA championship in just their second yearThe Golden State Valkyries will begin their quest for a WNBA championship in just their second year of existence against Atlanta Dream.Sky Sports · 16 Oct, 13:12

In this story: Golden State Valkyries · Atlanta Dream · Gabby Williams · Joe Lacob · San Francisco · Las Vegas Aces

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