Gabby Williams scores 26 points to lead the Golden State Valkyries over the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals.
The Golden State Valkyries secured a dramatic 68-64 home victory against the Atlanta Dream in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday afternoon, according to information published by bleache.
The intense championship matchup took place at the Chase Center in San Francisco, featuring a fierce defensive battle between two of the league's top defensive squads.
Forward Gabby Williams delivered a game-high 26 points, including 16 in a dominant second quarter, to propel the Valkyries to the crucial opening win of the series.
Gabby Williams Dominates Second Quarter Scoring
Atlanta controlled the opening period and established a 22-14 lead after the first quarter, fueled by an impressive 11-0 run to close out the frame.
Angel Reese performed efficiently for the Dream by scoring half of her team's initial points on a 5-of-6 shooting clip during the early stages of the game.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter when Golden State outscored Atlanta 28-17 to take a narrow edge heading into halftime.
Gabby Williams nearly outscored the entire Atlanta roster by herself during this explosive offensive surge in the second period of play.
Allisha Gray Returns for Atlanta Dream
The third quarter belonged entirely to the visiting Dream, aided by the return of All-Star guard Allisha Gray to the lineup.
Allisha Gray had previously missed nearly three games due to an injured ring finger on her left shooting hand before making her comeback.
During the third quarter, Allisha Gray contributed six points and one assist, helping Atlanta outscore Golden State 17-9 in the frame.
She punctuated her strong return by sinking an impressive off-balance two-pointer right before the conclusion of the third quarter.
Valkyries Secure Victory in Fourth Quarter
True to the alternating pattern of dominance, the Golden State Valkyries seized control during the final ten minutes of regulation.
Golden State outscored Atlanta 17-8 in the fourth quarter, highlighted by a critical 7-0 run entirely from free throws in the last 2:15.
Gabby Williams scored six of those crucial points down the stretch, sealing the narrow victory for the home team.
With the win in the books, the Golden State Valkyries will now host the Atlanta Dream for Game 2 on Monday at 8 p.m. ET.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Game 1 of the WNBA Finals?
The Golden State Valkyries won Game 1 of the WNBA Finals by defeating the Atlanta Dream 68-64 at the Chase Center.
How many points did Gabby Williams score?
Forward Gabby Williams scored a game-high 26 points, including 16 points in the second quarter, to lead the Golden State Valkyries to victory.
When is Game 2 of the WNBA Finals?
Game 2 of the WNBA Finals between the Golden State Valkyries and the Atlanta Dream takes place on Monday at 8 p.m. ET in San Francisco.
How did Angel Reese perform in Game 1?
Angel Reese played efficiently for the Atlanta Dream, shooting 5-of-6 from the field and scoring half of her team's points in the first quarter.
