Valkyries Beat Dream in Game 5, One Win From Title
The Golden State Valkyries beat the Atlanta Dream 64-55 in Game 5 of the WNBA Finals on Monday. Golden State now leads the series 3-2.
13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks for center Kiah Stokes.
7 points and 15 rebounds for Angel Reese, held in check again.
25-22 halftime score set a low for a WNBA Finals first half.
17 Atlanta turnovers led to 21 Golden State points.
Why it matters: Golden State began play in 2025 and could win a title in its second season. Owner Joe Lacob had promised a championship within five years.
The Valkyries eliminated the defending champion Aces in the semifinals.
Stokes tied Lisa Leslie's record of six straight playoff games with three-plus blocks.
What’s next: Game 6 tips off Thursday at 12:30 p.m. EDT, when many fans will be working. Dream coach Karl Smesko said he was disappointed by the timing.
Hawks pushed their NBA game to 8 p.m., which could limit a title celebration.
Can Reese regain the scoring form she showed in Games 2 and 3?
Where would Golden State celebrate if it wins Thursday?
