The Golden State Valkyries captured the 2026 WNBA championship in their second season, defeating the Atlanta Dream 66-61 in Game 7 at Chase Center. Gabby Williams ignited a 13-point run with three straight 3-pointers in the third quarter, turning a 37-32 deficit into a lead. She finished with 30 points on 10-of-23 shooting, tying Penny Taylor's record for most points in a winner-take-all Finals game.
The Valkyries' elite defense, allowing under 70 points in all four Finals wins, proved decisive against the high-scoring Dream. Veronica Burton contributed 10 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, while Kiah Stokes anchored the defense with four blocks. Williams, a free agent addition this season, emerged as the team's leader and ultimate difference-maker, delivering under pressure after a quiet first half.
Her clutch free throws sealed the title, capping a dominant defensive performance that saw Golden State hold opponents below their season average in every playoff game. The championship marks the franchise's rapid rise and validates their defensive identity as the foundation of success.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing