The Atlanta Dream secured their first-ever WNBA Finals victory, defeating the Golden State Valkyries 79-65 in Game 2 on Monday night in San Francisco. Atlanta ended a frustrating championship-series drought after losing all ten previous Finals games across three appearances in 2010, 2011 and 2013.
Angel Reese delivered a spectacular performance, recording 30 points, 16 rebounds, three assists and two blocks to lead Atlanta’s historic victory. The 24-year-old forward dominated inside, helping the Dream establish control and silence the home crowd at Chase Center throughout the second half.
Meanwhile, Allisha Gray contributed 18 points, while Jordin Canada added 13 points and ten assists to strengthen Atlanta’s offensive performance. Atlanta’s defence also proved decisive, forcing turnovers and limiting Golden State’s scoring opportunities during a commanding second-half display.
The Dream entered Game 2 determined to respond after their narrow 68-64 defeat in Saturday’s opening contest against the Valkyries. Their emphatic victory levelled the best-of-seven championship series at 1-1, giving Atlanta renewed confidence ahead of the remaining Finals fixtures.
Reese also made history individually, becoming the youngest player in WNBA Finals history to record at least 30 points and 15 rebounds in one game. Her performance marked a remarkable response after she struggled offensively during the closing stages of Game 1 against Golden State.
Atlanta’s breakthrough represents a significant milestone for a franchise that previously reached the Finals three times without securing a victory. The series now moves to Atlanta, where the Dream will host Game 3 at State Farm Arena on Wednesday, October 21.
With home-court advantage shifting toward Atlanta, the Dream will aim to build on their historic win and move closer to their first championship.
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