The Golden State Valkyries have officially reached the top of the WNBA, capturing their first championship in franchise history with a dramatic 68–63 victory over the Atlanta Dream in Game 7 of the 2026 WNBA Finals.
Playing before a sold-out crowd at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday, October 31, the Valkyries completed a 4–3 series victory, making history in only their second season as a franchise. Golden State became the first expansion team in WNBA history to win a championship just two years after its launch.
Gabby Williams delivered a spectacular performance when it mattered most, finishing with a game-high 30 points and four blocks. She scored 28 of her points in the second half, helping Golden State overcome a six-point halftime deficit and take control during the closing minutes.
Williams was subsequently named the 2026 WNBA Finals Most Valuable Player after averaging 19.6 points and 2.6 steals per game throughout the championship series.
The final minutes brought the intensity of a championship showdown. With the game tied late in the fourth quarter, Williams knocked down a crucial three-pointer and followed it with two free throws to help create separation. Veronica Burton then sealed the victory at the free-throw line with seconds remaining.
Kiah Stokes also played a major role, collecting 13 rebounds and recording two blocks in the deciding game. Her defensive contributions helped Golden State contain Atlanta and finish the series with the championship trophy.
The victory capped a remarkable postseason journey for the Valkyries, who defeated the Dallas Wings in the first round and swept the defending champion Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals before overcoming Atlanta in a seven-game Finals series.
The championship represents more than a title. It marks a historic achievement for a young franchise and another defining moment in the continued growth of women’s professional basketball.
