The Golden State Valkyries suffered their first home play-off defeat as the Atlanta Dream levelled the WNBA Finals with a 79-65 victory at Chase Center.
The result leaves the best-of-seven series tied at 1-1, with the Dream claiming the first Finals win in franchise history and taking home-court advantage into the next game.
Golden State made the brighter start, but Atlanta moved 39-37 ahead by half-time before pulling away after the interval. A 29-8 scoring run turned the contest in the Dream’s favour, with the visitors opening up a 21-point lead in the final quarter.
Atlanta’s defence restricted the Valkyries to 34.4 per cent shooting and forced 19 turnovers. Rhyne Howard set a Finals record with six steals, while the Dream converted those mistakes into 24 points.
Angel Reese was central to the visitors’ response, making a major impact at both ends of the court. Jordin Canada added 13 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds as Atlanta maintained its advantage throughout the closing stages.
Golden State’s second unit outscored Atlanta’s bench 33-11, but only Gabby Williams among the Valkyries’ starters reached double figures, finishing with 14 points. Kaila Charles made three of the team’s seven three-pointers.
Despite the defeat, the home crowd kept the arena lively under the “Ballhalla” banner. Bay Area rapper LaRussell performed during the interval, Alanis Morissette sang the national anthem and local hip-hop figures watched from courtside.
The series now moves to Atlanta for Game 3 at State Farm Arena on Wednesday, October 21. The Dream will have the opportunity to take a 2-1 lead in front of a sell-out crowd.
