Williams scored 30 points as Golden State beat Atlanta 68-63, becoming the first expansion team to win a WNBA championship in its second season.
By The Haitian Tribune Staff
October 31, 2026
SAN FRANCISCO — Gabby Williams took over when the Golden State Valkyries needed her most, leading the team to a 68-63 victory over the Atlanta Dream in Game 7 of the WNBA Finals on Saturday night.
The championship is Golden State’s first and comes in only the franchise’s second season. It also marks the first time an expansion team has won the WNBA Finals so soon after joining the league.
Williams finished with 30 points and four blocks. After scoring sparingly in the first half, she produced 15 points in the third quarter and kept Golden State within reach. She later hit a crucial three-pointer after Atlanta tied the game at 57 with less than three minutes remaining. Williams added two free throws to help the Valkyries regain control.
The game was tied 55-55 late in the fourth quarter before Golden State put together a decisive 7-0 run. Atlanta fought back, but Veronica Burton secured the ball after a jump ball and made two free throws with 5.1 seconds left to seal the win.
Burton contributed 10 points, 11 rebounds and five assists, while center Kiah Stokes grabbed 13 rebounds and blocked two shots. Tiffany Hayes added 11 points. For Atlanta, Jordin Canada scored 18 and Allisha Gray had 16; Angel Reese finished with eight points and 12 rebounds.
ANALYSIS | A STAR PERFORMANCE, BUILT ON DEFENSE
Williams’ scoring burst was the game’s defining moment, but Golden State’s defense gave the team room to recover from a six-point halftime deficit. The Valkyries made Atlanta work for its chances, protecting the paint and contesting shots throughout the game. Their defensive identity had carried them through the playoffs, and it held up in the deciding game.
The victory also showed the value of a balanced roster. Williams delivered the headline performance, while Burton, Stokes and Hayes made contributions at key moments. Coach Natalie Nakase’s lineup adjustments during the Finals brought additional energy, and the group stayed composed through a close finish.
For Atlanta, the loss came after forcing the first Game 7 in WNBA Finals history. The Dream had a chance to win their first title but could not contain Williams in the second half or convert enough opportunities late.
Golden State’s rapid rise gives the franchise a championship in its second year and establishes a high standard for the seasons ahead. Williams’ performance will be remembered as the spark—but the title was secured by a team that paired her scoring with defense, rebounding and timely plays from across the lineup.
The Haitian Tribune
