WNBA Finals: Golden State Valkyries Take 3-2 Lead Over Atlanta Dream in Game 5

Golden State Valkyries Take 3-2 Lead in WNBA Finals

The Golden State Valkyries moved within one victory of a WNBA championship in just their second season, grinding out a 64-55 win against the Atlanta Dream in Game 5 at Chase Center on Monday night. Back-to-back victories have put the Valkyries ahead 3-2 in the series after they previously trailed 2-1, putting the franchise on the cusp of history as reported by Sky Sport.

A Defensive Battle Sets Record Lows in San Francisco

Monday night’s contest featured a combined 25-22 halftime score, marking the lowest-scoring first half in WNBA Finals history. Both teams struggled to find offensive rhythm against elite defensive pressure, with the Valkyries shooting 39.3 percent and Atlanta managing just 29.2 percent from the floor. The series physical style has produced 37 total blocks so far, establishing a new record for the WNBA Finals.

Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton Anchor the Valkyries

With leading scorer Gabby Williams limited to nine points on 3-of-14 shooting, Kiah Stokes and Veronica Burton stepped up to shoulder the load for Golden State. Stokes finished with 13 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, earning chants of “MVP” from the sellout crowd of 18,000 at Chase Center. Burton contributed a nearly identical stat line of 13 points, eight rebounds, and four blocked shots, while Tiffany Hayes added 12 points and Cecilia Zandalasini chipped in 12 points off the bench with a team-high plus-nine rating.

Atlanta Dream vs. Golden State Valkyries | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | October 26, 2026

Golden State Run Pushes Atlanta Toward Elimination

Atlanta struggled to generate consistent offense as Angel Reese was held to seven points and 2-of-8 shooting, though she managed 15 rebounds and five assists. Rhyne Howard led the Dream with 20 points, but the visitors could not overcome a decisive 16-6 fourth-quarter run by Golden State that pushed the lead to 16 points. Atlanta now returns home facing a must-win scenario to keep their championship hopes alive.

Game 6 Takes Place Thursday in Atlanta

Game 6 of the WNBA Finals is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Tip-off is set for 12:30 p.m. local time, corresponding to 5:30 p.m. Italian time and 9:30 a.m. in the Bay Area, adjusted to prevent scheduling overlaps with an NBA game at the venue. Live coverage will air on Sky Sport Basket and stream on NOW, with commentary from Davide Fumagalli and Laura Macchi.