In a commanding performance at State Farm Arena, the No. 4 seeded Atlanta Dream seized a 2-1 lead in the 2026 WNBA Finals by defeating the No. 2 Golden State Valkyries 97-71. The sold-out crowd witnessed a dominant display as Atlanta took full control of Game 3 on their home court.
Angel Reese spearheaded the Dream’s success with a remarkable 21 points and 12 rebounds, marking her third consecutive double-double in the championship series and making her the youngest player to achieve this feat in a WNBA Finals. Supporting Reese’s efforts, Rhyne Howard contributed 16 points and five steals, adding defensive intensity and offensive production.
Atlanta’s Third-Quarter Surge Continues
The Dream’s advantage was most evident in the third quarter, a phase where they have consistently outplayed the Valkyries throughout the series. Over the three games, Atlanta outscored Golden State 63-35 during this pivotal period, cementing their momentum and control.
Despite the challenges, Golden State’s Gabby Williams led her team with 15 points, while veteran Tiffany Hayes added 14. However, the Valkyries struggled offensively, shooting a disappointing 34.8% from the field, which contributed to their second loss in the Finals.
Reflecting on the situation, Golden State coach Natalie Nakase emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “We know how to come back — what’s good is that we usually come back even tighter. This is where we lean on each other المزيد rather than split.”
The series will continue with Game 4 in Atlanta on السبت at 1 PM ET, broadcast on NBC, where the Dream will look to extend their lead and the Valkyries will aim to even the score.