The Golden State Valkyries turned an ambitious expansion-team promise into a championship, beating the Atlanta Dream 68-63 in the first Game 7 in WNBA Finals history. Their formula was defense, physicality and a team-first culture—not traditional star power—while Finals MVP Gabby Williams took over when the game was on the line.

By the Numbers
  • 68-63: Golden State’s Game 7 winning score.
  • 28: Williams’ second-half points, a WNBA Finals record.
  • 61: Average points allowed by the Valkyries in the Finals.
  • 19.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 2.7 assists: Williams’ per-game Finals averages.
  • 2: Laeticia Amihere became the second Canadian to win a WNBA title.
Yes, But

Golden State’s offense was inconsistent, including a five-minute scoring drought in Game 7, and the team lacked the star power many expected a champion to need. Its defense and depth proved enough to overcome those limitations.

State of Play
  • The Valkyries won the title in their second season, fulfilling owner Joe Lacob’s promise of a championship within five years.
  • Golden State’s defense set the tone, limiting Atlanta to 33.3% shooting in Game 7 and just 19 fourth-quarter points.
  • Williams’ late-game scoring and defense earned her Finals MVP.
  • Amihere played a role in high-leverage moments, including defending Angel Reese.
Bottom Line

The Valkyries’ rapid rise shows how a clear defensive identity, collective commitment and timely star performance can turn an expansion-team promise into a title.