Main Story

The Golden State Valkyries beat the Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5, taking a 3-2 lead in the WNBA Finals and moving within one win of a title. Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton each scored 13 points as Golden State’s depth delivered despite Gabby Williams’ shooting struggles. Atlanta’s 17 turnovers helped the Valkyries pull away in the second half.

By the Numbers
  • Stokes: 13 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks.
  • Burton: 13 points and 8 rebounds; Tiffany Hayes added 12 points.
  • Atlanta’s 17 turnovers led to 21 Golden State points.
  • The Valkyries lead the series 3-2; Game 6 is Thursday.
Yes, But

Golden State is one win from a championship, but Atlanta can still force a winner-take-all Game 7. The Valkyries also struggled from the field: Williams finished 3-for-14, and both teams shot poorly from 3-point range in the first half.

State of Play
  • Game 6 is Thursday at 12:30 p.m. ET at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena.
  • If the Dream win, Game 7 will be Saturday at Chase Center in San Francisco.
  • Stokes has recorded at least 3 blocks in 6 straight postseason games, tying Lisa Leslie’s WNBA record for a single postseason streak.
Bottom Line

Golden State’s collective effort and defensive pressure have put the franchise on the brink of a title—but Atlanta’s home floor gives the Dream one more chance to extend the series.