The Atlanta Dream secured a historic spot in WNBA Finals history by defeating the Golden State Valkyries 80-69 in Game 6, setting up a decisive Game 7. Allisha Gray was the catalyst for the victory, scoring 23 points on efficient 8-of-12 shooting, including 5-of-7 from three-point range. Her performance marked her second-highest-scoring playoff game of her career and made her only the second player in league history to hit at least five three-pointers while facing elimination in the Finals.
Gray's contribution extended beyond scoring; she recorded two steals and three blocks while holding the Valkyries to a 2-of-17 shooting record as their primary defender. The game-winning moment came with just under a minute remaining when Gray launched a three-pointer from the far-right corner, sealing the win before turning to the crowd in celebration. Despite admitting she has not been 100% healthy due to finger injuries sustained in the semifinals that required a minor procedure, Gray stated she was "locked in" and refused to go home without fighting for the championship.
The Dream's dominance began early, as they outscored the Valkyries 32-15 in the first quarter while hitting six three-pointers. This performance made Atlanta the second team in WNBA Finals history to make at least six threes and shoot at least 75% from beyond the arc in a single quarter. By halftime, the Dream held a 25-point lead, which stands as the biggest lead by a team facing elimination in Finals history. The team also tied the record for most three-pointers made (13) in a Finals game while facing elimination.
Teammates Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard provided crucial support alongside Gray. Reese finished with a double-double of 15 points and 15 rebounds, while Howard contributed 21 points and four three-pointers. The team's confidence was evident throughout the contest, highlighted by trash-talking and celebratory gestures that energized the State Farm Arena crowd. Coach Karl Smesko praised Gray's flawless execution, noting that the team took pride in her ability to step up when it mattered most.
The series will now conclude with Game 7 on Saturday at Ballhalla in San Francisco, scheduled for 8 p.m. ET. Reese emphasized that while the team could be happy about avoiding elimination, their job is not done and they must continue to elevate their performance for the final match.
Sources: ESPN News.