Home / Sports / Valkyries Force Game 5 with Clutch Road Win
Valkyries Force Game 5 with Clutch Road Win
24 Oct
Summary
- Gabby Williams led scorers with 17 points, bouncing back after tough previous games.
- Kiah Stokes recorded 16 rebounds and 3 blocks, setting a WNBA Finals record.
- Atlanta Dream committed 18 turnovers, their most in franchise playoff history.
The Golden State Valkyries have tied the WNBA Finals series at 2-2 with a pivotal 67-62 Game 4 road victory over the Atlanta Dream. This win, achieved after a previous significant loss, ensures the Valkyries' championship aspirations remain alive as the series returns to San Francisco. Gabby Williams, determined to control her team's narrative, delivered a game-high 17 points after a challenging Game 3 performance.
Golden State's defense proved suffocating, limiting the Dream's offensive rhythm and forcing 18 turnovers, a franchise playoff record. Angel Reese, a leading scorer for Atlanta, was held to eight points on inefficient shooting. Kiah Stokes was a defensive anchor for the Valkyries, contributing 16 rebounds and three blocks, and setting a new WNBA Finals record for blocks in a series. Rhyne Howard led the Dream with 19 points and eight rebounds.
The Valkyries established a 14-point lead by halftime, bolstered by an effective defensive strategy that capitalized on turnovers. Coach Natalie Nakase's strategic adjustments, including bringing in reserves Kayla Thornton and Cecilia Zandalasini, provided an immediate spark, with Zandalasini contributing 10 points and a significant plus-minus rating. Tiffany Hayes also added 13 points for Golden State.
The series will continue at Ballhalla, the Chase Center in San Francisco, for Game 5 on Monday. A decisive Game 6 is guaranteed to return to Atlanta on Thursday. Both upcoming games will be broadcast on USA Network and Peacock.
